South African President Thabo Mbeki named Minerals and Energy Minister Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka as his new deputy Wednesday in Cape Town to replace Jacob Zuma, who was axed last week over graft allegations.

Mbeki made the announcement during a press conference following the cabinet's fortnightly meeting on Wednesday.

Mlambo-Ngcuka, 49, becomes the first woman to hold the post of deputy president and the most senior woman in the cabinet in South Africa's political history.

Mlambo-Ngcuka is married to former National Prosecuting Authority boss Bulelani Ngcuka who has gone into business since heading a highly successful prosecutions team.

He was the key behind focusing on Jacob Zuma as a figure who should have been prosecuted for his role in South Africa's arms deal.

Mlambo-Ngcuka is a member of the ruling African National Congress' national executive committee and one of the most popular members.

Source: Xinhua