The MK Party has cautioned against potential civil war if the IEC excludes them from the upcoming 2024 elections.
MK Party warns of civil war if IEC removes them from 2024 elections
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In a series of public statements and social media posts, including those highlighted by SAFTU leader Zwelinzima Vavi, the MK Party has expressed that the exclusion of their party could lead to unprecedented anarchy and riots across South Africa.
The threats come amid concerns over violence and the unsettling display of firearms in a video shared by MK Party supporters, raising serious questions about the potential for unrest.
Fears of violent unrest were further cemented by Zuma loyalist Visvin Reddy, who, in a video clip that’s since gone viral, made it abundantly clear that “this country will be turned into civil war the day the MK Party is not allowed to campaign and to be on the ballot paper.”
“We are sending a loud and clear message that if these courts stop Mk there will be anarchy in this country there will be Riots like you’ve never seen in this country,” he exclaimed.
ANC rubbishes Jacob Zuma party’s threats of violence
In response to the MK Party’s threats, the African National Congress (ANC) has dismissed these as dangerous and unfounded.
The ANC strongly condemned the rhetoric of violence, emphasising that such statements undermine South Africa’s democratic foundations and pose a direct threat to the country’s institutions and citizenry.
“Such inflammatory rhetoric has no place in our democratic society and runs counter to the principles of peaceful coexistence and respect for the rule of law,” the party said.
The participation of Zuma’s party in the 2024 elections remains uncertain, pending the outcome of legal challenges and the IEC’s review of their registration.
The party has been given a deadline of Friday, 8 March 2024, to submit the necessary signatures, candidate lists, and deposits required for election contention, a feat previously failed by the Cape Independence Party.
The ongoing legal dispute with the ANC over trademark issues, coupled with the IEC’s review process, puts the MK Party’s participation in jeopardy.
Despite these challenges, the MK Party remains defiant, with representatives like eThekwini councillor Reddy warning of severe consequences if their party is barred from competing in the elections.
The final decision rests with the Electoral Court, which will determine the lawful status of the MK Party’s registration.
