ATM Rejects Merger Talks with MK Party, Denies Deregistration Rumors

African Transformation Movement (ATM) leader Vuyo Zungula has dismissed speculation about merging with Jacob Zuma’s MK Party, while confirming his party’s continued registration with the Electoral Commission.

Key Clarifications

• Merger Denial: “No discussions or plans to unite with any political party”
• Registration Status: Confirmed ATM remains legally recognized amid rumors of deregistration
• Election Prep: Party finalizing candidate lists for 2024 national polls

Political Context

• ATM holds 2 parliamentary seats since 2019 elections
• MK Party’s emergence has fragmented opposition space in KwaZulu-Natal
• Both parties position themselves as radical economic transformation advocates

Strategic Positioning

Zungula emphasized ATM’s distinct policy platform focusing on:
✓ Land expropriation without compensation
✓ Central bank nationalization
✓ Constitutional review

The statement comes as smaller parties face increased pressure to consolidate ahead of the elections.