IEC rejects application by the Islamic State of Africa to register as a political party

DURBAN - The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has rejected the application of the Islamic State of Africa to register as a political party.

The decision follows several objections and a failure to meet key registration requirements.

The IEC said that the Islamic State of Africa failed to submit the minimum of 300 signatures from registered voters, a basic legal requirement.

The party also published its registration notice in a newspaper with limited circulation, which the IEC said did not provide sufficient public notice.

In a statement, the commission said that it received over 200 objections from individuals and organisations who argued that the party’s constitution proposes policies based on Sharia Law, which it says conflict with South Africa’s constitutional values.

The Islamic State of Africa has 30 days to challenge the IEC's decision through an official appeal process.