The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) says it will not entertain a letter it received from expelled MK Party (MKP) founder Jabulani Khumalo.
In the letter to the IEC, Khumalo demands the chapter nine institution remove former President Jacob Zuma as the MK Party “face” and president.
Khumalo also asks the IEC to remove Zuma from the party’s list of members for parliament’s National Assembly.
Not involved in internal party politics
In a statement released on Tuesday by the IEC, the body said it does not involve itself in the internal affairs of political parties.
The electoral body also said it only acts on the instructions of the registered leader of a political party. The IEC said Zuma has been the registered leader of the MK Party, since April 10.
“The Electoral Commission confirms that it has received communication from Mr Jabulani Khumalo on behalf of the MK Party,” said the commission..
“The letter has also been circulated extensively on social media platforms. In that letter Mr Khumalo demands that the [IEC] should remove Mr Zuma as the face of MKP and as the president of the MKP.
“The commission reiterates its stance that it does not involve itself in internal affairs of political parties. Additionally, the commission only acts on instruction of the registered leader of the party.”
In the letter to the IEC, Khumalo accused the former stateman of trying to hijack the political party. He also accuses him of throwing him out on the periphery.
Fraudulent and illegal maneuvers
“I write to you in my capacity as the president of MKP. This is to request the immediate removal of Mr Zuma’s name as the face of MKP and president of MKP,” wrote Khumalo in a letter dated May 5.
“He occupies both positions through fraudulent and illegal maneuvers. The interim executive will be taking steps immediately to address the conduct of Mr Zuma.”
Khumalo’s tirade comes a week after he was expelled from the party. He was removed on allegations that he was working with outside forces to infiltrate the MKP. The party accused him together with other senior leaders.
As the party, branded around the cult figure of Zuma, implodes, Khumalo insists that he is still the president of the new formation. This while the IEC does not share his view.
