South Africa's president announces resignation

JOHANNESBURG — South African President Jacob Zuma said he has resigned “with immediate effect.” The scandal-tainted leader made the announcement late Wednesday in a televised address to the nation. 

Zuma, who is 75, said he has resigned despite his disagreement with the instruction of the ruling African National Congress party to leave office immediately. The ANC had been prepared to pursue a vote of no confidence in parliament on Thursday. 

“I have served the people of South Africa to the best of my ability,” he said, AFP reported. “I am forever grateful that they trusted me with the highest office in the land.”

“I don’t fear exiting political office however I have only asked my party to articulate my transgressions and the reason for its instructions that I vacate office,” he said.  

Zuma’s tenure has been marred by years of corruption scandals. He has been in a vulnerable position since December, when his rival, Cyril Ramaphosa, was chosen to lead the party, the BBC reports. 

South Africa’s ruling party welcomed Zuma’s resignation after months of growing public anger over multiple corruption allegations. The ANC expressed gratitude for Zuma’s “loyal service” and issued a statement saying his resignation provided “certainty to the people of South Africa.”

It also encouraged party members to support Ramaphosa, who is now the country’s acting president. Ramaphosa is expected to be elected swiftly in a parliament vote and sworn in. 

Zuma had been in power since 2009.