GOING HOME: President Zuma addresses media that he is stepping down as president of South Africa
Maleka Charles
President Jacob Zuma has finally resigned as the president of South Africa, after nine years of service in parliament.
Zuma became the second president in the history of South African politics, Wednesday night to leave office, following the long speculations that the NEC was contriving a motion of no confidence to unsit him as the state’s man this week.
In his resignation speech last night at the Union Building, Zuma said he respected the notion to remove him as the president of the country and was not apprehensive to exit political office.
“I respect the constitution and its consequences on how we enter, stay in and exit political office and government.”
“I do not fear exiting the political office, however I have asked my party to articulate my transgressions and the reason for its immediate instruction that I vacate office.”
The president said he accepted the ANC’s decision to dethrone him with immediate effect before his end of term and said was not afraid of a motion of no confidence.
“I must accept that if my party and my compatriot wish that I be removed from office, they must exercise that right and do so in the manner prescribed by the constitution.”
“I fear no motion of no confidence or impeachment for they are the lawful mechanism for the people of this beautiful country to remove their president.” Zuma said bravely.
“I’ve served the people of South Africa to the best of my ability, I am forever greatful that they trusted me with their highest office in the land.”
Zuma acknowledged the ANC for its intrepid fight against white brutality in the country and said was indebted to the ANC even though he feels forced to resign in a motion of no confidence.
“I respect each members and leaders of this glorious movement, I respect its gallant fight against centuries of white minority brutality, whose relics remain today and continued to be entrenched in a manner of sophisticated ways in order to ensure the continued survival of white privilege.”
“I am forever indebted to the ANC, the liberation movement I’ve served almost all my life.”
Due to instances of violence that have taken place amongst the members of the ANC outside Luthuli house, Zuma has urged the party to stay intact and never be divided in his name.
“I have also been disturbed by the instances of violence that have occurred because of different views among members of our organization outside our headquarters Luthuli House.”
“No life should be lost in my name and also the ANC should never be divided in my name.”
In conclusion to his emotional resignation speech the president thanked the members of parliaments, business sectors, education, religions and all South Africans for supporting him as the former president of the country.
“I thank all stake holders, business labour, religious leaders, traditional leaders, youths, women groups, the education sector and others we have worked with over the years, united by the goal of moving South Africa forward.
Zuma’s resignation comes amidst the alleged arrest of the Guptas by the hawks this week.