South Africa's president has responded to the political crisis that erupted after he fired the finance minister, acknowledging that public disputes at the top of the government are a "serious weakness".

South African President Thabo Mbeki has told his nation he has formally resigned, effective as soon as a new president is chosen.

South Africa’s ruling party has called on President Thabo Mbeki to resign and says he has agreed to the request.

The two unions representing striking South African gold miners today agreed to accept management’s latest offer and return to work, ending the industry’s worst strike in 18 years.