For the sake of the country, our democracy, the ruling ANC and especially Deputy President Jacob Zuma, director for national public prosecutions Bulelani Ngcuka must not give in to the pressure and resign.

Already there are indications that knives are out for him for launching the Zuma probe. He has been castigated by various people, including Zuma and ANC secretary-general Kgalema Motlanthe.

But he has also received support from many other South Africans who believe that nobody should be above the law and that if Zuma has a case to answer, he should do so.

Over the last few days, the attacks on Ngcuka have been mounting and he may just fail to resist the temptation to step down. If he were to resign, this would be one of South Africa's darkest hours.

As a country, we would have failed a crucial test. This would mean that our institutions are not strong enough to protect our fledgling democracy.

For the ANC, Ngcuka's departure would strengthen the party's critics who argue that the governing party is not prepared to walk the anti-corruption talk.

But one individual whose credibility would be seriously affected is Zuma. If Ngcuka resigns before the Zuma probe has been finalised, this would rob the deputy president of an opportunity to clear his name. Even if he were later to be cleared of any wrong-doing, the pungent smell around him would not vanish. The public perception would be that he forced Ngcuka to resign to abort the probe.

Our view, perhaps wish, is that Ngcuka should stay on at least until this inquiry has been completed.

The investigation has to be accelerated. Delays are generating bad publicity for our country and government.

The Scorpions have been on this case for three years and if there is evidence, Zuma should be charged. Equally if there is no case, the deputy president and the nation should be told.

The current ping-pong between the various factions in the ANC is not helpful. We really need finality in the matter.

With acknowledgement to The Star.