Egypt's military chief Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi announced Wednesday he would run for president in a forthcoming election he is expected to win handily.

In a televised statement, el-Sissi, who also announced his resignation from the military, said he could not "perform miracles" and called on Egyptians to work hard to improve their country.

Wearing his military uniform, el-Sissi said he would "give up the uniform to defend the nation" and run in elections expected next month.

Under Egyptian law, only civilians can run for president.

El-Sissi said events in recent years have shown Egyptians cannot be forced to elect a president they don’t want. He added that his candidacy should not preclude others from running.

The 59-year old military chief deposed President Mohammed Morsi last year following violent protests calling for his ouster.

—Becky Bratu, with Reuters