Hello
I am Zackie Achmat. I am a movement builder, political activist and law reformer. I’ve spent my life fighting for justice, equality, dignity, and freedom, particularly for working-class people and vulnerable communities. I am standing as an independent candidate in the 2024 elections.
What people say
“This country is crying out for Parliamentarians that vigorously represent the interests of the poor – who are indeed the real majority – and I have no doubt that [Zackie] will be truly effective in doing so with [his] sharp strategic abilities, [his] undoubted commitment and long years of experience (and success) in the struggle terrain. We need voices in Parliament that we can trust and believe in and I hope others will step up as [he is] doing to give teeth to a lifeless Parliament which ought to be a central pillar of our democracy, and that for too long has often been rendered toothless, aimless and full of empty theatrics signifying nothing. I salute you, Zackie, and all those who commit to making Parliament a happening space for the poor. Aluta continua!”
Barbara Hogan - former Minister of Health and of Public Enterprises
My Story
From an early age I was schooled by many great mentors, working with countless activists and leaders for the past 47 years. I was active, openly and underground, as a socialist in the ANC to help end White minority rule.
Initially I worked with our democratically elected parliament, shaping a more free, just and equal society. But I also resisted national parliament through the presidencies of Nelson Mandela, Thabo Mbeki, Kgalema Mothlante, Jacob Zuma and Cyril Ramaphosa.
To do this work, I’ve helped found and lead different movements with political education and strategy, research, writing, mobilising, organising, and litigation. These movements include the Treatment Action Campaign, Equal Education, the Social Justice Coalition, Ndifuna Ukwazi, Reclaim the City and #UniteBehind.
Currently, I work against state capture, corruption, mismanagement, fraud, incompetence and general criminality in the state, through the work of #UniteBehind.
Corruption, incompetence and mismanagement have gutted the institutions like Eskom, PRASA and SASSA, which were intended to serve all people in South Africa, costing lives, jobs and the economy.
It is time ethical and competent MPs hold the state accountable, that is why I am running as an independent candidate in the 2024 elections. As a progressive independent Member of Parliament, I will work towards a public service that is competent, ethical, and accountable.