Jacob Zuma resigns as South Africa's president

President Jacob Zuma has stepped down as President of South Africa after months of mounting pressure from the opposition parties and his very own ANC party.

Rais wa zamani wa Afrika Kusini Jacob Zuma, akiondoka katika bunge la taifa mjini, Cape Town Jumanne. Source: AAP

Jacob Zuma has officially resigned from his position as the head of state of South Africa. The announcement came through defiant address to the nation.

In his televised address to nation, Mr Zuma stressed that, whilst he felt compelled to resign, he remains committed to, and will continue to serve the ruling party ANC.

Rais Jacob Zuma (kushoto) na Naibu Rais Cyril Ramaphosa katika mkutano wa serikali mjini in Cape Town. Source: AAP

His address comes after the African National Congress National Executive Committee (NEC) affirmed its decision to recall him.

NEC members had held a series of marathon meetings with a delegation dispatched to communicate it's decision to Mr Zuma in person who it's reported dismissed NEC committee members demands.

Facing the likelihood of motion of no confidence sponsored by his very own party, it appears the weight of demands, pressure and criticism on the widely unpopular president was too much to bear hence the resignation.

The new President is expected to be announced by Friday with Mr Zuma's former deputy Cyril Ramaphosa the most likely to talk over the reigns.