In a move that has sparked debate across the country, South Africa’s Electoral Commission (IEC) has rejected an appeal by the Islamic State of Africa (ISA) to register as a political party.
The decision comes after the newly formed group proposed a political platform based on Sharia law, which the IEC ruled is incompatible with the nation’s Constitution.
The IEC emphasized that any political party must align with South Africa’s core democratic values, including equality, secular governance, and constitutional principles.
Constitutional Grounds for the Rejection
Under the Electoral Commission Act, the IEC has the authority to deny registration to any party whose policies conflict with the Constitution.
In its formal statement, the Commission explained that ISA’s proposed principles were “in direct conflict with the democratic and constitutional values enshrined in South African law.”
“The IEC is duty-bound to ensure that all registered parties uphold the spirit and letter of the Constitution,” the statement added, highlighting the Commission’s role in protecting the country’s democratic foundations.
ISA Pushes Back Against the Ruling
ISA spokesperson Ethan Ramkuar criticized the IEC’s decision, calling it discriminatory and suggesting that the group may take legal action.
“We respect the process but disagree with such judgment from IEC,” Ramkuar said.
“Our democracy allows us to challenge decisions of any institution and let the courts decide.”
Ramkuar also pointed to existing religiously affiliated parties, such as the African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP), arguing that ISA’s faith-based values should be treated equally.
“We are not different from some existing religious-based parties. The decision appears discriminatory,” he added.
The group confirmed it intends to challenge the ruling in the High Court, asserting that its freedom of association and political participation are being infringed upon.
Experts Support the IEC Decision
Political analyst and University of Cape Town lecturer Dr. Ahmed Essop weighed in, backing the IEC’s ruling.
He emphasized the importance of protecting South Africa’s secular democracy from ideologies that could undermine it.
“The IEC is rightly upholding constitutional values,” Dr. Essop said.
“Allowing a party to promote laws inconsistent with secular democracy could threaten social cohesion.”
Although the ISA has no known links to violence or extremist activity, experts say its ideological platform could conflict with key constitutional protections, particularly gender equality, freedom of religion, and the rule of law.
What Comes Next
ISA has indicated it will explore all legal avenues, including filing a case in the High Court in the coming weeks.
“We will not let this go unanswered. We will explore all legal avenues to ensure our rights are upheld,” Ramkuar said.
This case is expected to test the balance between freedom of political expression and constitutional compliance in South Africa, raising important questions about how democracy and religiously inspired political movements can coexist in the country.