The culmination of the Jacob Zuma trail has brought a premature and shameful end to his unbalanced presidency. It's a story that goes to the very heart of SA's political workings and deserves expanding... But no promises from me yet - there are at least 10 things queueing for my work...

ANC dumps Mbeki, moves to 'heal rift' - Mail & Guardian Online: The smart news source

South African President Thabo Mbeki has agreed to resign after the ANC announced that it would remove him from office before the end of his term.

"Following the decision of the national executive committee of the African National Congress to recall President Thabo Mbeki, the president has obliged and will step down after all constitutional requirements have been met," the presidency said.

The move could collapse the government and prompt early elections.

Mbeki has been mired in accusations that he conspired to undermine ANC leader Jacob Zuma.

"Our movement has been through a trying period and we are determined to heal the rift that might exist. In light of this and after a long and difficult discussion, the ANC has decided to recall the president of the republic before his term of office expires," ANC secretary general Gwede Mantashe told reporters in Kempton Park on the East Rand.

"Our decision has been communicated to him," said Mantashe.

Mantashe said that Mbeki's reaction to the news was "normal".