South Africa’s governing African National Congress ANC, has failed in a legal bid to stop a newly formed party, backed by ex-President Jacob Zuma, from running in May’s general election.

It is thought that Mr. Zuma’s backing of the MK could affect the ANC’s support.

The electoral court rejected the ANC’s argument that the party had not met the official registration criteria.

The ANC has also instigated separate legal proceedings against the MK party, accusing it of copyright infringement.