Islamic party registration uncertain

The registration of Islamic State of Africa (ISA) remains a contentious issue and the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has yet to decide on the party's fate after considering various issues necessary for registering it.

- Eric Mthobeli Naki

The IEC received objections to the party's registration, which is pending.

Party leader Farhad Hoomer, who was accused of terrorism and identified as leader of a local Islamic State (IS) cell and hit with sanctions by the United States, has applied to register ISA with the intention to contest the 2026 local government elections.

The IEC confirmed it received objections, but declined to divulge further information. However, it is understood that some people were concerned about the party's suspected links to the Islamic State, which is associated with many terrorist activities worldwide.