 That was seen as a step towards a smooth transition to a future Zuma government.Following a resolution by the ANC National Executive Commission to "recall" Mbeki from the presidency, Mbeki announced his resignation on 20 September 2008.On 23 September, Nathi Mthethwa, the ANC's Chief Whip, announced that Mbeki's resignation would take effect on 25 September 2008, and ANC Presiden Zuma said that his deputy, Motlanthe, would become president until the 2009 general election