Duarte quits presidency

2010-04-28 17:41

Kwanele Sibanda, I-Net Bridge

Johannesburg - The presidency announced on Wednesday that Jessie Duarte has resigned as the department's chief operating officer.

She will leave her position at the end of May 2010 to pursue other interests and give more time to her political work for the African National Congress, the Presidency said.

It said the organisational restructuring that the presidency department has undergone can largely be attributed to her work and vision as guided by the Union Building's political principals.

Director-General in the presidency, Vusi Mavimbela said: "We thank Jessie for her contributions to the presidency. The leadership and experience she brought to the organisation have been greatly appreciated and we wish her well in her future endeavours."

Duarte was, prior to joining the presidency, the spokesperson for the ANC. She has in the past served as a special assistant to former president Nelson Mandela and was a member of the provincial cabinet in Gauteng. She also served as an ambassador to Mozambique.

Duarte, the presidency said, was a long-time anti-apartheid activist who had lately devoted herself to building an efficient and service delivery-oriented public service.

"Resigning from the presidency was a difficult decision. However, I have discussed this with my political principals and am leaving with their blessing," Duarte said.

- I-Net Bridge (News24)