Former South African President Jacob Zuma has been disqualified from participating in the upcoming elections scheduled for May, as announced by the electoral commission, as reported by media.
South Africa is gearing up for its general elections on May 29, which are anticipated to be the most fiercely contested since the end of apartheid in 1994.
Jacob Zuma, who has been actively campaigning for the newly established uMkhonto WeSizwe (MK) party, is seeking to reinvigorate his political career following his previous imprisonment for contempt of court in 2021, according to Al Jazeera.
Electoral Commission President Mosotho Moepya confirmed the disqualification of former President Zuma, stating, “In the case of former President Zuma, yes, we did receive an objection, which has been upheld.” The party that nominated Zuma has been duly informed of this decision, along with those who raised objections against his candidacy.
The ruling African National Congress (ANC) is facing the prospect of falling below the 50 percent vote threshold for the first time since assuming power in 1994, as reported by media. The ANC is grappling with challenges such as a sluggish economy and allegations of corruption and mismanagement, necessitating the need for support, possibly through forming a coalition government if they fail to secure a majority.
Jacob Zuma’s presidency came to an end in 2018 amidst corruption allegations, leading to Cyril Ramaphosa assuming office as the new president. Zuma’s subsequent legal troubles, including his refusal to testify before a corruption probe panel, resulted in a 15-month jail sentence in June 2021. His imprisonment sparked widespread protests, riots, and looting, resulting in numerous fatalities.
Despite being released on medical parole just two months into his sentence, a court later deemed his release illegal and ordered his return to prison. However, Zuma benefited from a remission policy for non-violent offenders approved by President Ramaphosa upon his return to the correctional facility.
The electoral commission’s decision to disqualify Zuma from standing in the elections is grounded in constitutional provisions that prohibit individuals convicted of offenses and sentenced to more than 12 months’ imprisonment without the option of a fine from contesting in elections.
Additionally, Jacob Zuma is also facing corruption charges related to an arms procurement scandal from the 1990s when he served as vice president, further complicating his political future.
