The Constitutional Court in South Africa is set to decide on an appeal questioning former President Jacob Zuma’s eligibility to run in the upcoming elections on May 29. The court is hearing an appeal filed by the country’s election body after a lower court ruled in favor of Zuma’s candidacy. The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) had initially barred Zuma from running, citing a 2021 contempt of court conviction. Zuma, who is 82 years old, is leading a new opposition party, uMkhonto weSizwe (MK), which could potentially disrupt the general election and impact the balance of power in parliament.
The case against Zuma centers around a constitutional norm that prohibits anyone sentenced to more than 12 months in prison from serving in parliament. The ban lapses five years after the sentence is completed. The IEC argues that this provision applies to Zuma, while his lawyers claim that it does not apply due to his shortened sentence. The Constitutional Court, which previously sentenced Zuma to 15 months in prison for contempt, is now tasked with deciding on this eligibility case. Zuma’s lawyers have raised concerns about bias, arguing that some judges involved in the case should recuse themselves, potentially affecting the court’s ability to hear the case.
The timing of this case is significant as it comes just before what is expected to be the most competitive election since the end of apartheid in 1994. Zuma’s imprisonment in 2021 led to widespread unrest and violence in the country. There are concerns that a similar situation could occur again, with Zuma’s supporters already voicing threats of violence if the court rules against him. The case has made many observers nervous due to the potential for further unrest and instability in the country. In addition to the eligibility case, Zuma’s MK party is also under police investigation for alleged forgery of supporters’ signatures to register for the upcoming national elections.
The outcome of this case could have significant implications for the election and the future leadership of South Africa. Zuma’s party, while not expected to win the presidency, could impact the vote share of the ruling African National Congress (ANC) party and potentially influence the formation of the next government. The unresolved issue of Zuma’s eligibility has added a layer of uncertainty to an already tense political climate in the country. The Constitutional Court’s decision will ultimately determine whether Zuma can participate in the election, and the implications of this ruling on the political landscape of South Africa remain to be seen.
