The African National Congress (ANC) has declared its intention to challenge the verdict handed down by the Durban High Court on Monday.
According to Fikile Mbalula, the ANC’s Secretary General, the ruling party will not stand idly by while Zuma’s faction, masquerading under the name of uMKHONTO weSIZWE Party, flagrantly misuses the ANC’s trademark, symbol, and heritage.
The High Court’s decision in favour of MK has prompted the ANC to invoke section 34(1)(a) and (c) of the Trade Marks Act to demonstrate that the Zuma Party is unlawfully portraying itself as connected to the ANC by appropriating the party’s iconic logo and name.
“The ANC is the rightful owner of the uMKHONTO weSIZWE legacy and the Zuma Party’s attempt to hijack it will not go unchallenged,” stated Mbalula in a resolute tone.
The ANC’s appeal will revolve around the crucial question of whether the unauthorised use of intellectual property is permissible based on the purpose and manner in which it is utilised.
Mbalula asserted that the goodwill and legacy associated with uMKHONTO weSIZWE belong solely to the ANC and the Zuma Party’s audacious attempt to claim it for themselves will not be tolerated.
“We are committed to upholding the laws of our nation to ensure a fair and just election in accordance with the electoral code,” declared Mbalula.
While the ANC acknowledges the right of the Zuma Party to participate in the election, it will not allow the misuse of its intellectual property to go unchecked.
Mbalula emphasised, “In bringing this case, the ANC is not only protecting its intellectual property, but also safeguarding the legacy of the liberation struggle for generations to come.
Be First to Comment