IEC appeals Zuma ruling

The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) is urgently appealing to the Constitutional Court following the recent Jacob Zuma ruling. 

This move comes after the Electoral Court decided that Zuma, leader of the uMkhonto Wesizwe Party, can run for a seat in Parliament despite having been banned by the IEC for his 15-month prison sentence for contempt of court.

The IEC’s concern is needing clarity on the Electoral Court’s decision, particularly about the interpretation of Section 47(1)(e) of the Constitution. 

This section is important for understanding the criteria for parliamentary candidates, and the IEC seeks to ensure these rules are applied fairly.

By taking this issue to the Constitutional Court, the IEC aims not to engage in political disputes but to secure a standard interpretation of the law. 

This, they believe, is crucial for achieving free and fair elections. 

Compiled by staff writer

Pictured above: Jacob Zuma. 

Image source: File