JOHANNESBURG (AP) — Former South African President Jacob Zuma was barred Monday from running for Parliament in next week’s national election over a previous criminal conviction, the latest twist in his return to politics.
The decision by the country’s highest court, the Constitutional Court, may still be appealed. It ruled that Zuma is only eligible to serve as a lawmaker five years after his 2021 sentence for contempt of court was completed.
Zuma is now the leader of a new party, uMkhonto weSizwe Party, and is campaigning against the long-ruling African National Congress he once led.
Analysts say the ANC, which has comfortably held power since Nelson Mandela became the country’s first Black president in 1994, might receive less than 50% of votes in next Wednesday’s election and lose its parliamentary majority.
That would be the ANC’s worst electoral performance since it came into power in South Africa at the end of apartheid.
Everybody may love Raymond, but Ray Romano loves Peter Boyle
Previewing the 1st round of the NBA playoffs, which start on Saturday
How Taylor Swift's British ex Joe Alwyn kept dignified silence during six
Thai plastics firm will pay $20 million to settle with U.S. over Iran sanctions violations
Everybody may love Raymond, but Ray Romano loves Peter Boyle
Dominican prosecutors arrest soldier accused of raping a 14
Idaho group explores ballot initiative for abortion rights, reproductive care
Olympic torch makes Acropolis overnight stop a week before handover to Paris organizers
Rangers are undefeated at .500 to keep World Series champs from a losing record with Bochy
Tulsa athletic director Rick Dickson announces retirement
Travis Kelce downs whiskey shot on slice of bread at Kelce Jam without Taylor Swift
History with Maple Leafs could help Bruins snap short playoff slump