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South African President Jacob Zuma has resigned “with immediate effect.”
Zuma, whose tenure has been marred by corruption scandals, made the announcement late Wednesday in a televised address to the nation.
Zuma says he has resigned despite his disagreement with the instruction of the ruling African National Congress party to leave office immediately. The ANC, working with opposition parties, had planned to pass a vote of no confidence in parliament on Thursday.
The ANC has welcomed the resignation. It expressed gratitude for Zuma’s “loyal service” and is encouraging party members to support the new party leader, Cyril Ramaphosa, who is now the country’s acting president.
Ramaphosa is expected to be elected swiftly in a parliament vote and sworn in.