ANC deputy president Jacob Zuma says he is withdrawing from party activities in the "best interest" of the organisation that he has served for 47 years with "unwavering loyalty and dedication".

In a brief statement issued last night, in which no mention was made of corruption, Zuma said he had noted the National Prosecuting Authority's decision to charge him.

The decision was communicated to him yesterday afternoon by NPA head Vusi Pikoli.

"I welcome this decision as it affords me an opportunity to respond to, and clarify the allegations that have been made against me over a period of time."

In the light of the NPA decision to charge him, "I have also decided to withdraw participation from ANC structures pending the completion of the legal process so as to allow my organisation to function smoothly without pressure".

Zuma said he had advised the ANC accordingly.

"I have taken this decision in the best interest of my organisation, the African National Congress, which I have served for 47 years with unwavering loyalty and dedication."

Only two days ago Zuma made it clear he would not resign as ANC deputy president unless a disciplinary committee found him guilty of wrongdoing.

On whether he might be compromising his party by not stepping down, Zuma told SABC Africa: "I would not have walked away on my own from the deputy presidency of the country when I am not guilty... and so there is no reason why I should walk away from the ANC. The ANC has not said there is anything that they found wrong with me."

The ANC treated its members fairly and did not jump to conclusions based on allegations, Zuma said.

However, if he were disciplined by the movement he would respect its rules and regulations.

Last night, ANC members told Independent Newspapers that had Zuma not stepped down from active party duty, he would have faced disciplinary action and been suspended.

With acknowledgements to Angela Quintal, Moshoeshoe Monare and the Cape Times.