New Kid on the Block: MK Party Surges in Eastern Cape Provincial Elections

The MK Party, a newcomer in the political arena, is gaining significant ground in the Eastern Cape provincial elections, confident of securing a top position by the end of the counting process. Speaking from the Electoral Commission of South Africa‘s results operations centre in East London, Provincial elections head Andiswa Nika expressed her satisfaction with the party’s performance.

With just over 13% of the votes counted, totaling 172,283 votes as of 9:30 am, the MK Party finds itself among the top five parties in the Eastern Cape, trailing behind the ANC, DA, EFF, and UDM. Nika noted that the party’s current standings are impressive given its challenges and constraints.

The MK Party faced various obstacles, including legal battles related to its logo, name, and symbols, particularly with former President Jacob Zuma‘s involvement. Despite these hurdles, Nika commended the dedication of party members who campaigned tirelessly with limited resources.

Nika expressed her surprise and delight at the party’s performance, stating, ‘This tells you people believe in the MK Party.’ Emphasizing that it is still early in the counting process, she anticipates further growth in their support. While initially uncertain about the party’s prospects, Nika now envisions the MK Party taking the lead position by the conclusion of the counting.

She confidently asserted, ‘By the end of the counting, we will have surpassed the ANC. We will be sitting at No. 1.’ Regardless, Nika assured that even if they don’t secure the top position, the MK Party will remain among the top five contenders in the Eastern Cape provincial elections.