South Africa's chief prosecutor, who has led a spirited anti-graft campaign against top South African politicians, has abruptly resigned, sparking allegations that he has been forced to quit by a political establishment fearful of his work.
Bulelani Ngcuka had overseen the successful prosecution of many influential people in South Africa, including
anti-apartheid icon Winnie Mandela.
The real trouble for Ngcuka started when he took on vice-president Jacob Zuma, over allegations that he had solicited for bribes in a multi-billion pound arms deal.
Ngcuka later announced he would not prosecute Zuma, while insisting that there was a prima facie case against the vice-president.
His statement effectively scuttled Zuma's chances of succeeding President Thabo Mbeki, sparking a campaign against the prosecutor by Zuma's supporters.
He submitted his resignation letter to Mbeki last week, although news about his decision to quit only broke on Monday. Mbeki has yet to accept Ngcuka's resignation.
