Thabo Mbeki

Thabo Mbeki

Thabo Mbeki in 2007
Name	Thabo Mbeki
Birth name
Birth date	Birth date -1st March 1966
Birth place	Mbewuleni, Cape Province, South Africa
Death date
Death place
Alma mater
Occupation	Politician
Years active
Organization
Known for	President of South Africa (1999–2008)
Notable works
Spouse(s)
Website

Thabo Mvuyelwa Mbeki (born 18 June 1942) is a South African politician who served as the second post-apartheid President of South Africa from 1999 to 2008. He succeeded Nelson Mandela and was succeeded by Kgalema Motlanthe. Mbeki is a member of the African National Congress (ANC) and played a significant role in the anti-apartheid movement.

Early Life and Education

Thabo Mbeki was born in the village of Mbewuleni in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. He is the son of Govan Mbeki, a prominent anti-apartheid activist. Mbeki attended primary school in Idutywa and high school at Lovedale, a prestigious institution in the Eastern Cape. He later studied at the University of Fort Hare, where he became involved in student politics.

In 1962, Mbeki went into exile and continued his education in the United Kingdom, where he studied economics at the University of Sussex, earning a Master of Arts degree in 1966.

Political Career

Mbeki joined the ANC Youth League at the age of 14 and became deeply involved in the anti-apartheid struggle. During his time in exile, he worked for the ANC in various capacities, including as a representative in the Soviet Union and later in Zambia.

Presidency

Mbeki became Deputy President of South Africa in 1994, serving under Nelson Mandela. In 1999, he was elected President of South Africa. His presidency was marked by economic growth and the implementation of policies aimed at reducing poverty and inequality. However, his tenure was also controversial due to his stance on HIV/AIDS and his reluctance to provide antiretroviral drugs to those affected by the disease.

HIV/AIDS Controversy

Mbeki's presidency was overshadowed by his controversial views on HIV/AIDS. He questioned the link between HIV and AIDS and was criticized for not supporting the widespread use of antiretroviral drugs. This stance led to significant criticism from both domestic and international communities.

Resignation

In September 2008, Mbeki resigned from the presidency after being recalled by the ANC. His resignation followed a court ruling that suggested political interference in the prosecution of Jacob Zuma, his political rival.

Legacy

Mbeki's legacy is mixed. He is credited with promoting economic growth and stability in South Africa, but his handling of the HIV/AIDS crisis remains a significant point of criticism. His intellectual approach to governance and his efforts to promote African Renaissance are also notable aspects of his legacy.

Also see

• Nelson Mandela
• Jacob Zuma
• African National Congress
• HIV/AIDS in South Africa