South Africa's ANC Loses Trademark Lawsuit to Zuma-Backed MK Party

Durban, South Africa — The African National Congress (ANC), South Africa's ruling party, has lost a significant trademark court battle to the newly established uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party, which is supported by former President Jacob Zuma.

The Durban court's decision on Monday allows the MK party to continue using its name and logo, which are similar to those of the ANC’s former military wing, also named uMkhonto weSizwe.

The ANC had sought to prevent the MK party from using the name and emblem, arguing that their similarity could lead to voter confusion in the forthcoming general elections scheduled for May.

The party contended that the resemblance might mislead voters, potentially affecting the outcome of the elections.

Despite these claims, the court rejected the ANC's application, affirming the MK party's right to continue its campaign activities under the current name and logo.

Jabulani Khumalo, co-founder of the MK party, expressed satisfaction with the court's ruling, stating that the party had "conquered" and emphasizing their focus on promoting Jacob Zuma's campaign against the ANC in the upcoming elections.

Jacob Zuma, aged 81, is actively campaigning with the MK party, which marks a significant shift in South African politics, as he was once a prominent figure within the ANC itself.

This legal victory for the MK party sets the stage for a heated electoral contest next month, where voter choices may be influenced by the legacy and influence of former leaders like Zuma.