The African National Congress has chosen President Thabo Mbeki and rival Jacob Zuma as the only candidates for the party’s leadership contest to be held on Tuesday. The contest which pits Mbeki against his former deputy has deeply divided the ruling party and is the first time the ANC has had a contested election for leadership in 55 years.

Also at stake is the candidature for the 2009 presidential elections. It is widely believed Mbeki main intention in running for leadership is to prevent Zuma for becoming the ANC’s presidential candidate in 2009, which Zuma would almost be certain of if he wins the leadership contest.

In the leadership nominations Zuma has won support from ANC supporters in five of South Africa’s nine regions as well as the Women’s and youth wings, and looks the more likely of the two to emerge winner.

If he does so it will be a big turnaround in Zuma’s fortunes after he was sacked in 2005 by Mbeki as Deputy President over corruption allegations. He troubles did not stop there as he was also charged that year with rape.

Zuma has consistently fought these charges and still managed to retain widespread popularity with the electorate. His populist agenda plays well with millions of South Africans yet to see the dividends thirteen years after the end of Apartheid. It remains to be seen if can successfully win both his legal and political battles and tomorrow will be a key determinant of this.