By Angela Quintal

President Mbeki declared 2008 the year for "Business Unusual" for his administration. But given his early exit, there is plenty that will remain "unfinished".

This includes the fate of suspended National Prosecuting Authority boss Vusi Pikoli, whose fitness to hold office is the subject of an inquiry by Dr Frene Ginwala. It also leaves National Police Commissioner Jackie Selebi's future in doubt.

Mbeki, who had refused to suspend Selebi, went a step further this year and appointed him as top cop for another term, despite the fact that he has a corruption trial pending.

There are at least two key bills that Mbeki will not sign into law as head of state: on the Scorpions and appointment of the SABC board. He has also been "robbed" of the chance to appoint new Constitutional Court judges, including Chief Justice Pius Langa's successor.

• This article was originally published on page 3 of Pretoria News on September 22, 2008