Johnathan Paoli
THE African Transformation Movement (ATM) has announced its decision to file papers in the Electoral Court, following allegations of misconduct against the Chairperson of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) Mosotho Moepya.
In a statement released on Wednesday, ATM party leader Vuyo Zungula said following allegations made by former ANC Western Cape researcher Winston Erasmus, the party has outlined how the IEC chair allegedly conspired with the ruling party to undermine its participation in the democratic process, including attempts to deregister the party and manipulate election outcomes.
“It is evident that the IEC’s actions have led to suspicions of voter fraud and vote rigging, undermining the very foundation of democracy in our country. The ATM asserts that the integrity of the electoral process must be preserved at all costs to safeguard the democratic rights of all citizens,” Zungula said.
He confirmed the party’s intentions to initiate legal proceedings challenging the fairness of the 2024 national and provincial elections, specifically addressing concerns regarding the credibility and impartiality of the IEC in overseeing elections.
Zungula said the documented irregularities and inconsistencies observed during the elections strongly suggested that the commission has veered away from its mandate, and become embroiled in irregularities and inconsistencies and compromising its ability to administer free and fair elections.
Furthermore, the party clarified that it is not a party to the request made by the forum of opposition parties to the Chief Justice to facilitate coalition talks among political parties.
“The ATM remains committed to upholding the principles of democracy and ensuring that the voices of all South Africans are heard and respected,” Zungula concluded.
The party said it hoped the electoral court swiftly and diligently addressed the allegations which demanded consideration.
INSIDE POLITICS
