ANC likely to name Motlanthe president for interim period

Durban, Sept 22 (PTI) South Africa's ruling African
National Congress (A.N.C.) is likely to name Deputy President
Kgalema Motlanthe to succeed President Thabo Mbeki, who bowed
to pressure from his party and submitted his resignation, for
an interim period till elections are held.

An indication in this regard was given by party strongman
and A.N.C. leader Jacob Zuma at a media briefing at party
headquarters in Johannesburg Monday.

Zuma said the name of the new acting president will be
announced in Parliament at an appropriate time. But said that
Motlanthe "would be equal to the task." The decision on the
new president is likely to be taken after Parliament formally
accepts Mbeki's resignation.

Motlanthe could serve as head of state until elections
are held in seven months' time. Zuma, who is ultimately billed
to take over as president, is currently barred as he is not a
member of Parliament. More PTI SB
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