Kgalema Mothlante will have his work cut out for him over the course of the next few months. He will have to stanch the exodus from the ANC, including the increasing likelihood that a breakaway faction will form a new party. He will have to placate Zuma's most ardent supporters, such as the vocal elements within the ANC Youth League. And he will need to respond to the needs of a deeply discontent populace sure to demand delivery of services and tired of empty promises. Thabo Mbeki failed this population and whatever Zuma's promises, Mothlante is in the position to act on their behalf and stabilize the ANC. He faces a treacherous few months, but with the fraught circumstances will come opportunity for Mothlante to succeed in his new office and assure himself a chance to make his new job permanent.