South African DJ and music producer Shimza, whose real name is Ashley Raphala, has sparked controversy by publicly endorsing the African National Congress (ANC) just hours before the upcoming general election.
The move has drawn mixed reactions from fans and social media users, highlighting the challenges faced by public figures when navigating political affiliations in a deeply divided society.
Taking to Twitter, Shimza posted the ANC logo along with heart emojis in the party’s signature colours. While some fans appreciate his right to express his political views, others have criticized him for supporting a party that has faced numerous controversies over the years.
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The ANC, once led by anti-apartheid icon Nelson Mandela, has been South Africa’s ruling party since the country’s first democratic elections in 1994.
However, recent opinion polls suggest that the ANC may lose its parliamentary majority for the first time due to declining support. Factors such as economic stagnation, widespread poverty, power cuts, and high unemployment rates have contributed to the party’s waning popularity.
Former South African President Jacob Zuma, who was removed from office in 2018 amid corruption allegations, has now become a central figure in the political landscape. Zuma leads the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party), named after the ANC’s former military wing.
His popularity, particularly in his home province of KwaZulu-Natal, has positioned the MK Party as a potential contender in the upcoming elections.
The ANC has attempted legal maneuvers to challenge Zuma’s party. In one court case, the ANC demanded that the MK Party be deregistered and banned from participating in the elections.
However, the Electoral Court dismissed the ANC’s objection, stating that it should have addressed the Independent Electoral Commission before filing a court case.
Additionally, the ANC lost another court case against the MK Party, alleging copyright infringement related to the party’s name and logo.
As South Africa heads to the polls on May 29, 2024, the ANC faces intense competition. The party’s historical significance and legacy are juxtaposed with the challenges of the present day.
Whether the ANC can maintain its grip on power remains uncertain, but the emergence of rival parties like the MK Party adds complexity to the political landscape.
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