Mbeki undermined by his own party: IFP

The NPA has come out in defense of Mbeki in his actions towards Police Commissioner Jackie Selebi

Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) leader, Mangosuthu Buthelezi, has expressed sadness at developments in the ruling ANC, saying the party should return to its original ways of a liberation movement of the people.

Buthelezi says the period leading to the ANC election and its outcome in Polokwane has severely undermined President Thabo Mbeki's office and his government.

Buthelezi says institutions of State require respect for all South Africans, irrespective of the incumbent leadership in charge. Buthelezi has warned that the country may be entering a "dark season of regrets".

Meanwhile the United Democratic Movement (UDM) leader, Bantu Holomisa, has warned that Parliament will resist attempts by the governing ANC to dismantle the special investigative unit, the Scorpions. Holomisa says it is clear that the Scorpions have produced good results in fighting organised crime.

However, government has made an official announcement today that it is proceeding with its plan to incorporate the Scorpions into the SA Police Service.

Parties wants Mbeki to resign
The Independent Democrats (ID) has become the second party in Parliament - after the Democratic Alliance - to call for the resignation of Mbeki and his entire cabinet.

ID leader Patricia de Lille says she will hand over a written motion to the Secretary of Parliament calling for Mbeki's removal from office. De Lille accuses the Mbeki administration of failing to handle the prevailing energy crisis in the country.