The resignation of 14 Cabinet Ministers loyal to President Mbeki signals the beginning of a radical realignment of South African politics. It is clear that behind the display of unity, that there is deep dissatisfaction with the ANC NEC's decision to recall the President.

Many of the Ministers resigning, including Trevor Manuel, Mosiuoa Lekota and Ronnie Kasrils, served their office with distinction. That the ANC is willing to sacrifice them and risk our country's stability in order to wreak revenge on the President, speaks volumes about its lack of commitment to stable government.

The time is now upon us to radically realign the political landscape. We must bring together all of those in the opposition and in the ruling party who believe in the supremacy of the Constitution and build an alternative to Jacob Zuma's ANC.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) will take this process forward with those who share our vision for a non-racial, democratic and prosperous South Africa in which all are equal before the law.

Statement issued by Democratic Alliance leader, Helen Zille, September 23 2008