Today's papers say it all; it's time for an early election.

Today's papers say it all; it's time for an early election.

This has happened in South Africa and elsewhere before and what is in President Thabo Mbeki's favour is that he has not gone the way of Robert Mugabe, thus showing that democracy and the ability to accept democratic defeat will and can work in Africa.

With the cabinet in disarray, the most honourable thing to do is to call an early election. A leader in this country cannot lose party leadership and still head government with dignity and authority.

Mbeki lost like a man and will be recorded by history as a man who lost touch with ordinary people.

This, hopefully, is a lesson to future leaders to never lose identity with those having the power of the "X". They should not only be remembered at election times, then forgotten.

Congratulations to the new ANC president. Like all other presidents, he has our support as disciplined ANC members. Congratulations Msholozi.

Benjamin Seitisho, Johannesburg