Washington DC, May 13, 2025 - Safeguarding Constitutional Rights and National Unity: United Opposition to the "Islamic State of Africa" Political Party

A broad coalition of civic organizations, constitutional scholars, and concerned citizens today announces the launch of a national campaign to oppose the registration and participation of the so-called "Islamic State of Africa" political party. This campaign arises from grave concerns regarding the party’s threat to constitutional rights, public safety, and the foundational principle that religion must never be placed above the law.

Constitutional Rights Under Threat

The creation of a political party explicitly grounded in the establishment of an "Islamic State" poses a direct challenge to the constitutional order. Fundamental rights-such as freedom of religion, equality before the law, and the separation of religion and state-are imperiled when a party’s agenda is to subordinate national law to religious doctrine. International and constitutional standards are clear: the manifestation of religious beliefs may be limited by law to protect public safety, order, and the fundamental rights and freedoms of others.

Religion Cannot Be Above the Law

While freedom of religion is a cornerstone of democratic societies, it cannot supersede the rule of law. The deliberate effort to institutionalize a religious state apparatus undermines the legal and civic equality of all citizens, regardless of faith or belief, and sets a dangerous precedent that could erode pluralism and democratic governance.

Lessons from Other Countries: A Cautionary Tale

Recent history across Africa and beyond demonstrates the catastrophic consequences of empowering organizations with radical religious agendas. The so-called "Islamic State" and its affiliates, such as the Islamic State Central Africa Province (ISCAP), have transformed from obscure militant groups into regional terrorist threats, responsible for thousands of deaths and widespread instability. In countries like Uganda, Congo, and Mozambique, the adoption of the "Islamic State" moniker has been accompanied by violent campaigns, destruction of cultural heritage, and the systematic undermining of national unity. These developments underscore the existential risk posed by legitimizing such movements within the political system.

A Threat to Public Safety and National Unity

The association of the "Islamic State" name with transnational terrorism is undeniable. The group’s ideology and symbolism are globally recognized as offensive and militant, invoking fear, division, and violence. Endorsing a political party with such branding is not only deeply insensitive to victims of terrorism but also poses a tangible threat to public safety and the cohesion of our society. Security assessments consistently warn that terrorist organizations exploit political processes to spread extremist agendas and destabilize nations.

Offensive Symbolism and Radical Agenda

The symbolism and language adopted by the "Islamic State of Africa" party are not benign. They are rooted in a radical, militant agenda that has fueled violence, destruction of cultural heritage, and the propagation of extremist propaganda worldwide. The deliberate invocation of this identity is a provocation that cannot be ignored.

Potential Violation of Electoral Law: Section 16 of the Electoral Commission Act

The campaign also highlights a potential violation of Section 16 of the Electoral Commission Act. The Act empowers the Commission to refuse registration of parties whose names, symbols, or objectives are misleading, offensive, or likely to cause confusion or incite violence. Given the direct association of the "Islamic State" name with terrorism and violence, there is a strong case for the Commission to exercise its powers to protect the integrity of the electoral process and uphold the rule of law.

A Call to Action

We call upon the Electoral Commission, lawmakers, and all citizens to reject the registration and participation of the "Islamic State of Africa" political party. The defense of constitutional rights, public safety, and national unity demands unequivocal action against any movement seeking to place religious ideology above the law or to import the symbols and strategies of global terrorism into our political system.

Together, we stand for democracy, unity, and the rule of law. Complete the letter with your contact details and email it TODAY to: The Chief Electoral Officer - Electoral Commission of South Africa

This campaign is committed to upholding the highest standards of constitutional democracy and the protection of all citizens from extremism and violence.