Embattled South African President Jacob Zuma has resigned.

Zuma announced his decision to resign from office at an address to the nation on Wednesday evening

“I have come to the decision to resign with immediate effect,” he said.

Zuma’s address comes after the ANC moved to remove him from office by a vote of no confidence in parliament on Thursday if he did not accede to the party’s edict for him to resign by the end of the day.

“Even though I disagree with the decision of my organization, I have always been a disciplined member of the ANC,” he said.

Zuma also noted that as he exits office, he will continue to serve the People of South Africa and the ANC.

“I will dedicate all my energy to work towards the attainment of the policies of our organization (ANC); in particular, Radical Economic Transformation agenda,” Zuma stated.

He thanked the ANC paid tribute to the ANC as a liberation movement to which he says he has served all his life.

“I am forever indebted to the ANC, the liberation movement I have served for almost all my life,” he said, adding “I respect each member and leader of this glorious movement.”

South African Vice President Cyril Ramaphosa now assumes the country’s presidency.