ANC Attorney Cried After Electoral Court Loss

Salman Patel, director of SM Patel Attorneys, expressed emotional distress following the electoral court's dismissal of the ANC's application in a dispute with the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC). Patel, who represented the ANC, stated he cried and locked himself in his room after the setback.

Patel explained the decision had significant implications for 181 candidates whose participation in the November 4 local government elections was at risk. He acknowledged the difficulty of accepting the court's ruling, given the potential consequences for the candidates.

Despite the emotional toll, Patel found encouragement from his family and faith, which helped him refocus on the case. He and his team decided to approach the Constitutional Court, believing in their case and the importance of the dispute for his young law firm.