What many of us expected happened today; ANC deputy president Kgalema Motlanthe was duly elected in the National Assembly as South Africa’s next president to replace Thabo Mbeki, who resigned after being “recalled” by the party. Motlanthe garnered 269 votes against the 50 votes cast for the only other nominee, Democratic Alliance chairperson Joe Seremane. There were 41 spoilt ballots (One wonders how there can be such a large number of spoilt ballots?)

The ANC says Motlanthe’s election to the country’s highest seat sends a signal to the country and the international community of the ANC’s commitment to maintain stability and continuity in government. Party spokesperson Jesse Duarte says Motlanthe belongs to a group of leaders who have always put the needs of the country and its people first.

It is a new dawn in South Africa today. What will Motlante bring to the leadership of the country? Is he going to outshine Thabo Mbeki in the short time he has until the 2009 elections? Is he just going to keep it simple? Or is he going to try make a mark for himself in the time he has available? Many questions remain to be answered. What do you think of Motlante as the new president?