Prosecutors in South Africa have announced they are dropping corruption charges against African National Congress (ANC) leader Jacob Zuma.

Chief prosecutor Mokotedi Mpshe said phone-tap evidence suggested political interference in the investigation.

Mr Zuma has always denied the allegations of graft, racketeering and money-laundering in connection to a multimillion dollar arms deal in 1999.

He is expected to become president after general elections on 22 April.

The BBC's Alexis Akwagyiram says the ANC office in Polokwane greeted with jubilation the decision, which was broadcast live on radio and television.