Electoral Commission dismisses Islamic State of Africa's appeal to become political party

JOHANNESBURG - The Islamic State of Africa will not become a political party after the Electoral Commission dismissed its appeal. 

The organisation initially had its application to register as a political party rejected and took the matter on appeal. 

However, that has now failed, leaving the organisation considering its options going forward. 

The organisation wants to bring Sharia law to South Africa, a set of guiding principles for Muslims. 

The Electoral Commission said the organisation’s ideas are in opposition to the country’s secular values, espoused in the constitution. 

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

The Islamic State of Africa has cried foul over this, saying it's no different from the African Christian Democratic Party, whose ideas are also underpinned by religion. 

"We respect the process but disagree with such judgment from IEC. Our democracy allows us to challenge decisions of any institutions if we feel the need to, and allow the courts to make a decision," said the organisations, Ethan Ramkuar.

Ramkuar said they are considering approaching the high court.