The gradual phasing out of organisations inspired by the controversial Islamic theoretician and educator in the South Caucasus country began at least two years ago, after once friendly relations between Gulen and Erdogan suddenly soured dramatically.

Kgalema Motlanthe, while stating a desire to pursue continuity, has got rid of some of Mbeki s more controversial ministers. Chief among these is Health Minister Dr Manto Tshabalala Msimang, the chief theoretician behind Mbeki s AIDS denialist policies.