Contrary to widespread calls from different sectors of society that President Jacob Zuma should step down‚ branches of the African National Congress want him to finish his term.

This was revealed by ANC secretary general Gwede Mantashe when he addressed a media briefing on Tuesday.

“Overwhelmingly‚ the branches of the ANC confirmed the decision of the National Working Committee not to recall the President.”

Mantashe said the decision of ANC branches was communicated to the national executive committee (NEC) during its meeting over the weekend.

He said the branches’ decision was informed by‚ among other things‚ unity of the party.

“Branches emphasised the importance of unity of the movement and accepting the apology of the President must contribute to unity of the movement.

“The NEC also received a report on the engagements that had been undertaken with ANC structures and other stakeholders on the alleged business influence on the state as well as the Constitutional Court judgement relating to the security upgradings at the President’s residence in Nkandla‚” Mantashe said.

Mantashe said people who were invited to his office to give insight into allegations of state capture by the Gupta family had developed cold feet.

“A number of comrades came forward to engage with the office of the secretary general. It was unfortunate that only one person could make a written submission on the matter.

“The allegations made were serious‚ they cannot be treated lightly and many warrant a comprehensive investigation. The NEC has advised comrades to formalise their complaints to institutions that deal with complaints of this nature‚” he said.