ANC leader Cyril Ramaphosa has been named President of South Africa, following an uncontested nomination by the ruling party, reports CNN.

This comes just hours after Jacob Zuma announced his resignation in a television address. The former president had been forced to step down by the ANC, who threatened a vote of no confidence. "No life should be lost in my name and also the ANC should never be divided in my name," Zuma said during his speech. "I have therefore come to the decision to resign as President of the Republic with immediate effect."

"Even though I disagree with the decision of the Leadership of my organization, I have always been a disciplined member of the ANC," he continued.

Rampaphosa was elected head of the ANC in December, promising to challenge corruption and economic turbulence. He is often celebrated for his role in helping negotiate a peaceful transition to democracy following the end of apartheid.

He was met with applause in the house after being sworn in on Tuesday.

The response from South Africans so far, has been most celebratory as many believe that Ramaphosa is a good fit for the presidency, and are calling this a "new era" for the country. Some are jsimply glad that Zuma is gone.