Former South African President Jacob Zuma has been barred from participating in the upcoming general election, scheduled for May 29.
The country's electoral officials did not provide an official reason for this decision, but it comes amid heightened tension as the election is anticipated to be the most competitive since the advent of democracy in 1994.
Electoral commission head Mosotho Moepya confirmed that an objection against Mr. Zuma's candidacy had been upheld, with the party that nominated him notified of the decision.
Mr. Zuma, who served as president from 2009 until 2018, stepped down over corruption allegations and was later sentenced to 15 months in prison for contempt of court.
His disqualification from the election is believed to stem from this conviction, as South African law prohibits individuals sentenced to longer than 12 months from running for office.
Additionally, Mr. Zuma's support for the uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party, seen as a potential threat to the ruling African National Congress (ANC), may have contributed to his disqualification.
The ANC is already facing challenges, including a weak economy and allegations of corruption, and Mr. Zuma's exclusion could further impact the party's standing as it seeks to maintain its grip on power amidst growing competition.
