The Western Cape High Court has nullified the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party’s decision to remove members of the All African Alliance Movement (AAAM) from its candidates’ list and expel them during the election period.
Sophonia Tsekedi, leader of the AAAM, and Khethiso Tebe, who held the third and seventh spots on the National Assembly candidates’ list respectively, challenged their removal. Tsekedi claims to represent a coalition of African churches with the support of 14 million congregants.
This ruling marks a legal milestone as it is the first time the MK Party’s expulsion of members listed as candidates and elected to Parliament has been overturned by the courts.
The MK Party faced widespread criticism for its decision to remove elected representatives to make space for figures like Dr. John Hlophe, who has served as the party’s leader in Parliament.
The court’s order not only reinstates Tsekedi and Tebe to their original positions but also invalidates all subsequent actions taken by the party, including appointing replacements. Those placed in their positions must now vacate them.
Despite the ruling, the MK Party retains the option to appeal, which would suspend the court’s decision pending further legal proceedings.
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