Sameera Casmod | sameerac@radioislam.co.za
11 September 2023 | 11:00am SAST
1-min read

Picture: BORGEN Magazine

South Africa is witnessing a surge in the formation of new political parties as the nation prepares for the upcoming 2024 elections. The political landscape, once dominated by the African National Congress (ANC), is now evolving, with various parties competing for attention and influence.

The latest addition to this growing list is former ANC Secretary General Ace Magashule, who has announced the formation of the African Congress for Transformation (ACT). This development has raised significant questions about the role of these emerging parties and whether they have the potential to bring about positive change for South Africans.

In an interview on Radio Islam International, two representatives from new political parties, Nobunto Hlazo-Webster of Build One South Africa and Vujiswa Ramakhopa, National Chairperson of RISE Mzansi, shared their insights on this evolving political landscape.

The discussion began by addressing the recent passing of Chief Mangosuthu Buthelezi, a prominent figure in South African politics. Both guests expressed condolences and acknowledged the diverse opinions surrounding his legacy, highlighting the complex nature of the nation’s history.

The conversation then turned to the emergence of new parties like ACT, led by Ace Magashule, the former Secretary General of the ANC. Hlazo-Webster emphasised that South Africa’s democracy thrives on political diversity and welcomed the formation of new parties as a reflection of various constituencies and perspectives within the country.

Ramakhopa added that South Africa is undergoing a political transformation, moving away from a one-party-dominant system, and that the challenge lies in ensuring that emerging parties genuinely serve the interests of the people and the nation.

Both representatives raised concerns about political opportunism and the need for new parties to prioritise the interests of South Africans over self-interest. They stressed the importance of parties being representative and responsive to the needs of the people.

Regarding their respective parties’ plans for the upcoming elections, RISE Mzansi aims to make a significant impact across all nine provinces, seeking to provide a credible political alternative that aligns with the aspirations of the majority. Build One South Africa has actively engaged with communities, allowing them to nominate candidates for national parliaments and provincial legislatures, emphasising the importance of representative leadership.

Listen to the full interview on Sabaahul Muslim with Moulana Sulaimaan Ravat: