Johannesburg – Two more political parties – Ekhethu People’s Party (EPP) and United Christian Democratic Party (UCDP) – have joined the Multi-Party Charter that aims to unseat the governing African National Congress (ANC) at next year’s elections.
In a joint statement on Thursday, the Multi-Party Charter comprising the Democratic Alliance (DA), Inkatha Freedom Party, Freedom Front Plus, ActionSA, African Christian Democratic Party, Independent South African National Civic Organisation, United Independent Movement, and Spectrum National Party said it was “delighted to welcome two new parties to our group”.
The statement added: “The Ekhethu People’s Party is a good fit, being broadly aligned with the Charter’s core governing principles.
“The EPP is based in Gauteng and will be contesting nationally in 2024.
“We are confident that the EPP will win many votes from former ANC voters who have become disillusioned with the ANC.
“The United Christian Democratic Party is also a most welcome addition to our group, being equally committed to our core principles.”
The UCDP was founded in 1977 by Lucas Mangope and is most active in North West Province, where, “we are confident they will be able to win many votes from disgruntled former ANC voters,” the statement said.
“The formation of the Multi-Party Charter in 2023 has profoundly altered South Africa’s political landscape, producing a new centre of power that can offer voters an alternative government in 2024 with a credible pathway to power – a government based on winning principles.
“These principles bind us as parties to the Charter agreement. We call on South Africans to join us in uniting around these core principles, no matter our great diversity.”
They are a commitment to:
- The South African Constitution, the rule of law, and equality before the law;
- Decentralising power to the lowest effective level of government;
- Accountable, transparent government with zero tolerance for corruption;
- A capable government that spends public money efficiently to deliver quality services to all;
- A caring government that puts people first and prioritises the poor;
- An open market economy;
- Policies guided by evidence that they produce positive results for society; and
- Redress our unjust past by promoting non-racialism and unity in our diversity.
The Multi-Party Charter said only a government based on these principles would be able to ensure a growing economy, energy security, law and order, a sustainable social safety net, and quality education, healthcare, and basic services for all.
Ahead of the 2024 general election, the Multi-Party Charter said, “it will be working hard to unite South Africans behind these principles so that together we can bring the change our nation so urgently needs”.
The Multi-Party Charter added: “We wish everyone a safe and happy festive season that will usher in a year of enormous opportunity for our country.
“We look forward to working with you to turn that opportunity into real change that improves the lives of everyone living in this beloved country.”
