The President of South Africa, Jacob Zuma, has finally stepped down after months of pressure from his own party.
Zuma announced his resignation in a speech aired on tv, revealing he was stepping down with ‘immediate effect’.
Zuma would be replaced by his Vice President, Cyril Ramaphosa.
The 75 year old, who rose to power in 2009, has seen his reign plagued by numerous corruption scandals and immense pressure from his own party, the African National Congress (ANC).
Facing an upcoming vote of no confidence from his former allies in his party, , Zuma finally made the decision to go.
“No life should be lost in my name and also the ANC should never be divided in my name. I have therefore come to the decision to resign as president of the republic with immediate effect,” he said.
“Even though I disagree with the decision of the leadership of my organisation, I have always been a disciplined member of the ANC. As I leave I will continue to serve the people of South Africa as well as the ANC, the organisation I have served… all of my life.” he added.