TWO new political parties are joining forces to increase their chances of winning the upcoming elections in May.
Economic Liberators Forum-South Africa (ELF-SA) and Party of Action (POA) announced on Monday, 8 April, that they'll be merging under ELF-SA for the National and Provincial Election.
This comes after the two parties failed to garner the numbers needed by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) to qualify to be on the ballot paper.
Addressing the media in Tshwane, ELF-SA leader Hulisani Mani said the Electoral Amendments Act 1 of 2023 has made it difficult for new parties to contest the 2024 elections.
Mani said as a result, parties have had to decide on how to proceed.
He said the decision to join forces with POA was made on Tuesday, 2 April.
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“The discussion follows the challenge POA was facing with regards to registering to contest the election. Following the discussions, it was then decided that POA would offer its full support to ELF-SA in the upcoming elections in May.
“We are urging all the POA members to fully support the ELF-SA, to demonstrate a vibrant and inclusive democratic process in South Africa,” he said.
Mani said his party embraces with gratitude the steps POA took to partner with them, which solidified their standing amongst other political parties.
He said that they are still open to working with other political parties as they prepare to contest against the heavyweights.
Mani aid with the new addition to their party, they're ready to make a meaningful impact in the elections.
“We're excited to present fresh and innovative ideas to the electorate. Our manifesto launch will be held on 11 May,” he said.
The ELF leader said they will be contesting nationally, and the provinces where they will be contesting for premiership include Gauteng, KZN, Mpumalanga, Limpopo and the North West.
Mani said they're confident that they'll do well during the elections because people have received them well.
