South Africa Electoral Commission Blocks Jacob Zuma’s Participation
Former South African President Jacob Zuma has been prohibited from participating in the upcoming general election in May by the country’s electoral commission, the IEC. The commission did not provide a specific reason for this decision, but it’s widely speculated that Zuma’s conviction and subsequent imprisonment in 2021 for contempt of court have rendered him ineligible. Zuma’s support for the newly formed uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party has raised concerns, as it poses a potential challenge to the ruling African National Congress (ANC), which has already suspended him.
Zuma, who served as president from 2009 to 2018, was compelled to resign due to allegations of corruption. His new political venture, the MK party, draws its name from the ANC’s former military arm, and Zuma portrays himself as the rightful successor to the party’s revolutionary legacy.
The ANC had sought to have the MK party deregistered, but their request was denied by the electoral commission on Tuesday. Zuma’s nomination as the lead candidate for the MK party faced objections, leading to the electoral commission’s decision to uphold the objection and inform the party accordingly. Zuma has the opportunity to appeal this decision by April 2.
Zuma’s disqualification stems not only from his recent imprisonment but also from the constitutional provision barring individuals who have served prison sentences exceeding 12 months from contesting elections. Additionally, he faces charges of corruption related to a significant arms deal dating back to the 1990s, during his tenure as vice-president.
Despite Zuma’s exclusion, the MK party remains eligible to participate in the May 29 election, according to the IEC. This development comes amid speculation that the ANC’s dominance, which has persisted since the advent of democracy in 1994, could be challenged, with some polls suggesting that the party’s share of the vote might dip below 50% for the first time. The MK party, particularly popular in Zuma’s native KwaZulu-Natal region, could potentially play a significant role in reshaping South Africa’s political landscape.
