Farhad Hoomer, leader of the Islamic State of Africa political party, has called on South Africans to judge his organisation without prejudice as he seeks to register it with the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) to contest the 2026 municipal elections nationwide.
Hoomer, who was previously charged with terrorism in 2018 in connection with an alleged ISIS-linked cell and a deadly attack at the Imam Hussein Mosque in Verulam, north of Durban, maintains his innocence. The charges were later withdrawn, but his political ambitions continue to face public scrutiny.
“Old Cases Should Not Define Me” – Hoomer
In an interview, Hoomer expressed frustration over media focus on his past legal troubles, insisting he has no criminal record.
“I don’t think it’s fair for reporters to bring up the old case,” he said. “All charges have been withdrawn against me. I have zero criminal record. I’ve been an honest businessman for 25 years. Why is this still coming up?”
Despite his protests, concerns linger over whether a party with alleged historical ties to extremism should be permitted to participate in elections.
Party Aims: Free Services, Islamic Sharia Influence
Hoomer describes his party as one rooted in Islamic Sharia law but focused on community upliftment. Among his key promises are free water, electricity, education, and healthcare, as well as housing for the poor.
“We cannot allow people to sleep on the streets,” he said. “This is unacceptable in a country with so many resources. Foreign powers are stealing our wealth, and the government does nothing.”
IEC: Registration Hinges on Legal Compliance
The IEC has confirmed that any party seeking registration must comply with constitutional requirements, including prohibitions on hate speech or incitement to violence.
“We assess objections thoroughly,” said the IEC’s chief electoral officer. “If a party’s constitution violates the law, we will not register it. External factors, like bank account closures, do not influence our decision.”
Financial Struggles and Political Resolve
Hoomer claims that several of his and his daughter’s bank accounts have been recently closed, which he views as an attempt to undermine his political ambitions. However, he remains defiant.
“Even if the party is not registered, I will continue fighting for my community,” he said.
As the IEC reviews his application, the debate over his party’s legitimacy is set to intensify, with critics questioning its ideological foundations and supporters demanding fairness in the electoral process.