The South African President,  Jacob Zuma has resigned from office. In a televised statement he said he was quitting with immediate effect but said he disagreed with his ANC party's decision.
After paying tribute to those whom he had worked with over the years, Mr Zuma said that violence and division within the ANC had influenced his decision to step down.
"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."
The ANC had told him to step down or face a vote of no confidence in parliament.
The 75-year-old has been facing calls to give way to Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa, the ANC's new leader.
The former president, who has been in power for 9 years faced  numerous allegations of corruption.
On Thursday, 15th of February, Cyril Ramaphosa was elected by Parliament as South Africa’s president, marking a turning point for the country after the slow-motion collapse of the once-legendary ruling party under Jacob Zuma.