Zacky Achmat, the only independent candidate vying for a parliamentary seat in the Western Cape, says he will continue to be a voice for marginalized people in society. He has made rooting out corruption, rebuilding the country and building communities among his top priorities.
Mr Ahmat was speaking at a rally in Khayelitsha on the Cape Flats.
Ahmat, known for his work as a social justice activist and AIDS activist, said the rally was to acknowledge the support of different groups of people who support his campaign. He says the fight for dignified lives for the elderly, people with disabilities, homosexuals and other marginalized communities will continue.
“In our country, 22% of the population trusts political parties, 58% of the population does not vote because of party promises, and political parties do not tell the truth to the people, but in fact lie or unfairly. They make promises that are impossible to keep because they don't understand society, economics and politics. Our task, therefore, is to restore integrity, truth and diligence to politics. ”
Ahmat, who needs about 86,000 votes to win the seat, said he was not affiliated with any political party but would work with honest lawmakers who are committed to clean governance and fighting corruption.
“Parliament has an important role to play in making the voice of the people heard in Parliament and building a participatory democracy. That is our job. Any member can attend a committee meeting, even if I am not placed there. Any member can request documents, any member can ask questions. It's my job in Congress to be prepared, to research, to work with people, and to include their voices.”
He said it is important for the public to be concerned and aware of how government funds are being used.
2024 Election | Zacky Akhmat 2024 Rally: