Following threats of violence against the Independent Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) by members of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK), the African National Congress (ANC) urged South Africans to remain vigilant and to report any instances of threats or violence.

MK members recently warned that the IEC and courts would be attacked if MK was kept off the ballot, ahead of the 2024 elections.

The party, affiliated with former President Jacob Zuma, has until Friday to submit the signatures required by the IEC, as well as its candidate lists and deposits to be able to contest the elections.

The ANC condemned the MK members’ statements that threatened violence, saying it undermined the foundations of South Africa’s democracy.

“The threats of anarchy, riots and the disruption of elections are not only reckless but also pose a direct threat to the institutions of democracy and the people of South Africa. Such inflammatory rhetoric has no place in our democratic society and runs counter to the principles of peaceful coexistence and respect for the rule of law,” the ANC said.

The party said commitment to uphold the democratic process must be reaffirmed and called on other political parties and civil society to condemn the threats of violence.

“In the face of these threats, the ANC remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting peace, stability and the rule of law. We call on all South Africans to reject violence and to work together to safeguard our democratic institutions and the rights of all citizens,” the party said.