Mbeki resigns after power struggle

South African President Thabo Mbeki told the nation Sunday that he had resigned, having lost a power struggle to a rival tainted by allegations of corruption but poised now to lead the country.
In a sombre but dignified speech focusing on the successes and shortcomings of his nine-year presidency, Mbeki said he had submitted a letter to the speaker of Parliament "to tender my resignation from the high position of President of the Republic of South Africa."
He said he would stand down at a date to be determined by Parliament, which will convene in the coming days to select an interim president to serve until next year's elections.
National Assembly speaker Baleka Mbete, who is also chairwoman of the African National Congress, is widely tipped to become the interim head of state, paving the way for Mbeki's nemesis, Jacob Zuma, to take over after the elections.
The ANC has a huge majority and is expected to romp to victory in the polls despite its upheavals.