The president also called Hagel exemplary and says his decision to resign didn't come easily, but several sources told CNN that the president forced Hagel out.
South Africa's parliament can force him out of power before his term ends next year, but the African National Congress would have to team up with opposition parties in the vote.
But the coronavirus pandemic has caused millions of people to lose their job, and forced thousand more out of work temporarily with no idea if their job will still be there when they return.