afrol News, 23 September - Eleven South African ministers along with deputy president Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka have resigned today, following president Thabo Mbeki's stepping down over past weekend.

Resignations, which include those of finance minister Trevor Manuel and defence minister Mosiuoa Lekota, will take effect on Thursday when Mbeki steps down from office, a government statement said.

"All ministers have expressed their availability to assist incoming administration in hand-over process and any other assistance that might be sought from them," statement said.

Three deputy ministers have also tendered their resignations, statement further noted.

Mrs Mlambo-Ngcuka who took over as deputy president in 2005 after ruling African National Congress (ANC) leader Jacob Zuma was sacked, handed in her resignation earlier today, after her boss Mr Mbeki announced his decision to vacate office over weekend.

Meanwhile, party deputy leader Kgalema Motlanthe has been confirmed to succeed Mr Mbeki as new interim president until next polls to be held early in 2009.

Mr Motlanthe is expected to be sworn in on Thursday when Mr Mbeki formally vacates office.

Mrs Mlambo-Ngcuka's spokesperson Denzil Taylor, announced today that Mrs Mlambo-Ngcuka wishes to give new interim president chance to choose his own deputy.

It had been expected that she would take over, following Mr Mbeki's resignation.

An ANC spokesman confirmed that ruling party had named Mr Motlanthe as its choice to succeed Mr Mbeki.

Addressing nation yesterday, party leader Mr Zuma, reportedly praised his political archrival Mr Mbeki for his work, adding that he expected a "smooth transition" to a new president, hinting that Mr Motlanthe would be party's presidential nominee.

"We have in cabinet many experienced ministers, including deputy president of ANC, Comrade Kgalema Motlanthe. I am convinced that if given that responsibility, he would be equal to task," Mr Zuma was quoted as saying.

Earlier this month, ANC party asked Mr Mbeki to step down after a judge threw out corruption, fraud and racketeering case against Mr Zuma, calling it invalid and accusing Mr Mbeki's government of political interference in case.

Critics of Mr Mbeki alleged he pushed for corruption charges against Mr Zuma.

Mr Mbeki, 66, had been president for nearly 10 years, succeeding Nelson Mandela.

Case against Mr Zuma, who replaced him as ANC president last year was thrown out in September 2006, but National Prosecuting Authority recharged him.

Judge Chris Nicholson made no ruling on Zuma's guilt or innocence, and he could be recharged.

Mr Zuma who has denied charges said the case was politically motivated, and harmed his chances to become ANC's presidential nominee next year.

By staff writer

© afrol News

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