Johannesburg - Former president Thabo Mbeki received a hero's welcome at former president Nelson Mandela's memorial service at the FNB stadium, in Soweto, on Tuesday.
The crowd rose, chanting “Mbeki, Mbeki” as he walked to take his seat.
Some made cycle-like movements with their hands, indicating they wanted change.
Mourner Pule Modiegi told reporters Mbeki should come back to lead the ANC.
“He is an economist. Under his watch our economy was good.”
On Twitter, Mail&Guardian associate editor @phillipdewet commented: “Well I never. Mbeki just got the loudest, most sustained cheer of any arrival. Including Zuma & Bono.” - Sapa