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Former South African President Jacob Zuma Barred from May Election
In a significant development for South Africa’s upcoming general election in May, the country’s electoral commission, the IEC, has barred former President Jacob Zuma from participating. The decision, announced without a specified reason, is widely believed to stem from Zuma’s conviction and subsequent imprisonment in 2021 for contempt of court.
Zuma, who served as president from 2009 to 2018 before stepping down amidst corruption allegations, has been actively involved in the newly formed uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party. This move has been perceived as a potential challenge to the ruling African National Congress (ANC), which has suspended Zuma. The ANC had sought the deregistration of MK, but their request was rejected, further complicating the electoral landscape.
The IEC’s ruling disqualifying Zuma was confirmed by the commission’s head, Mosotho Moepya, who stated that objections against Zuma’s candidacy had been upheld. This decision leaves Zuma until April 2nd to appeal.
Despite facing legal hurdles, Zuma’s MK party remains undeterred, with spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndlhela affirming their intent to appeal the decision. However, Zuma’s legal challenges extend beyond electoral matters, as he faces corruption charges related to a multi-billion-dollar arms deal from the 1990s.
Meanwhile, the ANC braces for a potentially historic election, with opinion polls suggesting a potential dip below the 50% mark in vote share for the first time since the democratic transition in 1994. The MK party, particularly popular in Zuma’s home region of KwaZulu-Natal, adds a new dimension to an already dynamic political landscape.
The IEC clarified that its decision does not bar the MK party from participating in the May 29th poll.
45 Die in South Africa Bus Accident
At least 45 people were tragically killed on Thursday after a bus carrying pilgrims skidded off a bridge and plummeted 50 meters (165 feet) into a ravine, South African authorities confirmed.
The lone survivor, an eight-year-old girl, sustained serious injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital. The bus, which originated from Botswana’s capital Gaborone, was transporting worshippers to an Easter service in the town of Moria.
The incident occurred on the Mmamatlakala mountain pass, roughly 300 kilometers north of Johannesburg. According to the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), the bus lost control and veered off the bridge. The wreckage caught fire upon impact with the ground, making rescue efforts difficult.
Emergency services tirelessly worked through the night to locate and recover victims, some reportedly trapped within the mangled debris.
Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga expressed her deepest condolences to the bereaved families and pledged government support. This includes facilitating the repatriation of the deceased and conducting a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time,” Minister Chikunga stated. “We reiterate our call for responsible driving, particularly during this Easter weekend when our roads experience increased traffic.”
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