MK given extension to file objections to IEC's case against Zuma election eligibility

JOHANNESBURG - The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party has until 30 April to file its reasons on why its leader, Jacob Zuma, should remain on the ballot. 

On Thursday, the Constitutional Court granted the party an extension to file its answering affidavit in response to the Electoral Commission (IEC).

The IEC is appealing the Electoral Court order which stated Zuma was eligible to stand as a candidate in the upcoming elections. 

It has been more than three weeks since the Electoral Court made an order setting aside the IEC's decision to disqualify Zuma as a candidate. 

Since that time, the Electoral Court has not released the reasoned judgments behind its order. 

Nevertheless, the IEC has approached the apex court to appeal the order, saying it believes there are sufficient grounds for it to disqualify Zuma. 

Zuma and the MK Party initially had until Thursday to file its opposing papers in the Constitutional Court. 

However, their legal representatives complained that the deadline was short and did not give them sufficient time to mount a compelling defence.