French President Francois Hollande says he's not running in 2017 because he knows he might not have enough support. He stunned France by declaring he will not be seek a second term as president of France. 

Mr Hollande, faced with very low popularity ratings, hasbecome the first sitting president in modern French history not to seek re-election.

President Hollande says he decided against running for another term because he wants to give his Socialist party a chance to win "against conservatism and extremism."

Hollande said on French television Thursday that he was "lucid" about his chances of getting wide backing within the party, which remains deeply divided over his policies.

The historically unpopular president said the unexpected announcement: "Today, I am conscious of the risks that such a move would have if it doesn't get widespread support."

The 62-year-old Hollande also used his somber address to recap what he viewed as his achievements since taking office in 2012.

Prime Minister Manuel Valls is widely expected to jump into the Socialist primary field.