"The African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) has been a player on the South African political stage since its formation in 1993. As the name suggests, its central pillar is the Christian religion and its related moral beliefs. However, unlike many Christian parties on the international stage, the ACDP managed to shift its focus from a solely religious background to include other practical aspects that concern every South African. In terms of policies, the party is broad based. Many structures that new political parties need to work for already exist and function within the African Christian Democratic Party. It therefore does not need to deal with its internal affairs, but can fully commit to the election campaign in the run up to 2014’s election. Most importantly, the ACDP’s success in 2014 requires the party to develop stronger communication strategies to reach more potential voters. Especially now, in times when the moral integrity of the African National Congress, shaken by numerous corruption scandals, becomes doubtful, the ACDP should point out its religious embossing as a more morally transparent alternative.
All in all, the small political parties have an opportune time to raise their profile in 2013 and in the run up to the general elections in 2014. Many voters feel that President Jacob Zuma’s re-election as the ANC’s leader is not in the country’s best interest. This offers great opportunities for other parties to attract those dissatisfied voters. However, the transformation from a small to a medium or large political party is back-breaking work. The necessary public attention does not come automatically, but must be fought for constantly."
Fabian Scherer
f.scherer@politicalanalysis.co.za
January 23, 2013
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