By Becker Semela:
Fed up former African National Congress (ANC) Member of Parliament, Boy Mamabolo, has shocked many South Africans by opening his own political party, which he named Mandela for President. The Limpopo-based young politician made the announcement during an interview on Lesedi FM’s current affairs show on Wednesday.
Mamabolo, who has been vocal about his frustrations with the current government leadership, said the party’s name is meant to remind South Africans of the true values that Nelson Mandela stood for. “I chose the name Mandela for President to reclaim the legacy that has been damaged by the current ANC leadership. The late President Nelson Mandela built a democratic South Africa with love, peace and unity. I want to bring that spirit back,” Mamabolo said.
However, Mamabolo said the party has not yet been officially registered. He admitted that his team missed some of the registration steps required by the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) and they are now fixing the mistakes and will go back to the IEC soon. When asked about possible legal challenges over using the Mandela name, Mamabolo said he is not afraid.
“I know some ANC members and other people might try to take me to court, but I am ready. There is nothing wrong with what I’ve done. I am not disrespecting Mandela’s legacy, I am honouring it. I believe that many South Africans are ready for change and I hope the party will be a new home for people who are tired of broken promises, corruption and poor service delivery,” he said.
Mamabolo encouraged young people and frustrated voters to give his party a chance, saying Mandela for President will fight for the people, especially the poor and unemployed.
As the 2026 national elections approach, it remains to be seen if Mamabolo will succeed in registering the party in time and how the public will respond to a political party bearing the name of South Africa’s most loved former president. But Mamabolo said more details about his party’s plans, policies and membership will be shared soon. –@NewsSA_Online.
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