President Zuma resigns
Zuma earlier refused to resign, saying the African National Congress (ANC) had not provided him with details as to why the party has decided to recall him.
"Even though I do not agree with the decision of the leaders of my political organisation, I have always been a disciplined member of the ANC. As I leave I will continue to serve the people of South Africa as well as the ANC. The organisation I have served my all of my life in it. I will dedicate all my energy to work towards the attainment of the policies of our organisation. In particular radical economic transformation."
#ZumaExit President Jacob Zuma has decided to resign with immediate effect. pic.twitter.com/4xcKRca9ep
— Jacaranda News (@JacaNews) February 14, 2018
Zuma said his tenure was not easy.
"It was a mammoth task, the performance of which can never be done without difficulty and learning on the way. None of us no matter how perfect can claim that the building of a new society and the marshalling of a former liberation movement into a modern political party all happen in a straight line. It has detours and human error along the path."
He said he did not take his job for its benefits, and no leader should exit their political office on the basis of the benefits they will receive.
Despite being in disagreement with the party on his recall, he says he will continue to serve in the ANC.
ANC deputy secretary general Jessie Duarte briefed the media shortly after Zuma's resignation.
She described Zuma's resignation as painful and said there is no reason to celebrate his downfall.
Deputy President Cyril Ramphosa now act in President Zuma's place for up to 30 days.
Read more here: EXPLAINER: Step-by-step guide to Zuma's exit
Watch the President's whole resignation speech: