Jacob Zuma accuses IEC of wanting to disenfranchise millions of people

Lawyers for former president Jacob Zuma have accused the IEC (Independent Electoral Commission of South Africa) of wanting to disenfranchise millions of people who want to choose their leader via the newly formed Umkhonto Wesizwe (MK) Party.

Earlier this month, the commission upheld an objection to Zuma’s candidacy and disqualified him from standing for legislative seats in upcoming general elections.

This was based on Zuma’s 15-month sentence for being in contempt of court in 2021. However, Zuma has approached the Electoral Court to challenge this.

Section 47 of the Constitution bars Zuma from being a member of Parliament due to his 15-month prison sentence.

The law stipulates that anyone who is convicted of an offence and sentenced to more than 12 months without an option of a fine is disqualified for five years after the sentence is completed.

Zuma only served three months before receiving presidential remission, and his lawyer Advocate Dali Mpofu has argued that this means Section 27 does not apply to him.

He said whatever his initial sentence was, the ultimate sentence served is what should be considered.

But the full bench of judges has pointed out that the remission does not affect the sentence and the term that would be reflected in the former president’s records.

-EWN

In other news – WATCH: Inside MaMkhize’s birthday celebration with the orphans

Popular South African businesswoman, and reality TV star, Shauwn Mkhize, fondly known as MaMkhize, spent her birthday with young orphaned children instead. At the same time, she could’ve celebrated it at a star-studded party or with another luxury gift to herself.

The reality TV star and businesswoman turned 48 on Saturday, 6 April. The Royal AM CEO is typically known for her extravagant displays of wealth. Read More