Minister of Intelligence Ronnie Kasrils said yesterday that he was not available for reappointment.

Minister of Intelligence Ronnie Kasrils said yesterday that he was not available for reappointment.

"I am resigning from Parliament and have informed the president-elect, Mr Kgalema Motlanthe, that as much as I support and respect him, I am unavailable for reappointment," he said.

"I believe it is necessary to step aside so as to allow the new president to select his own cabinet in an unencumbered manner."

Kasrils said he would cooperate with the incoming minister and administration to ensure a smooth handover.

"I will be available as a private citizen to assist them if they call on me to do so."

He said he had also tried to ensure the morale and discipline of the ministerial staff and civilian intelligence services were maintained.

Kasrils thanked President Thabo Mbeki for his "inspired leadership" and the confidence he had placed in him by appointing him to ministerial positions for two terms of office. - Sapa