South African comedian Thanasagren Rubanathan Moodley (also known as Kalu Chalu) founded the 1860NIC conference. (Photo provided)
A newly launched political party, the 1860NIC Congress, aims to defend the rights of South Africa's Indian community and other minority groups.
Party founder Tanasagren Rubanathan Moodley formally announced the 1860NIC conference in Durban on Saturday, saying it would be a beacon of hope for South Africa's marginalized minorities.
“This is a milestone in Indian politics in South Africa. The 1860NIC Congress will become a major player in KZN politics, ensuring the province's second-largest population has a rightful place in the seat.” said Moodley.
Mr Moodley ran as an independent candidate in May's general election but failed to secure a seat, but called on the Indian community and other minority groups to rally behind his party.
“The future of the party depends entirely on the voters. If it is needed, it will thrive. If it is not, it will cease to exist. My aim is to leave a legacy for my children and their children. That's it.
“If we are not willing to secure a future for the next generation, then our tenure on this earth is a selfish and futile exercise, and the legacy of our forefathers in 1860 on whose shoulders we stand.” “It's an insult to,” he said.
Mr Moodley stressed that members of the Indian community, who faced oppression under apartheid, are still not fully free under South Africa's democratic system.
He pointed to the implementation of “flawed” policies such as the Broad-based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) and Employment Equity Act, which he claimed discriminated against Indians and other minorities.
“The 1860NIC Conference will ensure that Indians, as a traditionally disadvantaged community, are provided with equal rights and opportunities as enshrined in the Constitution and the Charter of Freedoms, and foster and foster India-Africa relations, particularly in KZN. We will strive to promote this.”
The 1860NIC Parliament, which was recently registered with the South African Electoral Commission (IEC), intends to contest the upcoming elections.
“The party plans to contest the 2026 local government elections and is eligible to contest by-elections in the state until then,” Moodley added.
Mr Moodley, a comedian known by his stage name Karu Chalu (KC), said he has been a community activist for over 20 years and is committed to ensuring the party's success.
This article was first published by The Witness.
