Mantashe: Running the ANC was not easy
Outgoing African National Congress (ANC) secretary general Gwede Mantashe says his past ten years as administrative head of the governing party was at times quite difficult.
Mantashe will step down as secretary general after serving two terms at Luthuli House.
His successor will be elected at the ANC's 54th national conference at the weekend.
Mantashe inspected the conference venue ahead of the start on Saturday.
"It's a mixed feeling, I am leaving an office I enjoyed for 10 years. A very difficult and complex office. I got blamed for everything and did not get credit for anything," Mantashe told the media.
He advised his successor to remain true to himself.
Matashe again gave an assurance that the ANC is ready for the start of the conference and that a new president will be elected by Sunday.