The Multi-Party Charter for South Africa on Tuesday stressed the importance of recognising the individual identity of each party and distanced itself from reports of a Roger Jardine presidency.

News reports over the weekend alleged that discussions were taking place between one of the parties in the Charter and Jardine regarding his intention to enter politics.

Jardine is a seasoned business leader with a history of involvement in the anti-apartheid struggle and the civil service.

Members of the Charter stressed the importance of developing its individual electoral support to advance the prospects of the collective majority in the Charter.

“It is fully recognised that every party in the Multi-Party Charter has the autonomous right to engage with, and make decisions about their relationship with, different individuals and organisations. Notwithstanding this fact, the Multi-Party Charter for South Africa would like to point out that there have been no discussions relating to a joint presidential candidate for the Charter,” the parties said.

The Multi-Party Charter has also reiterated its stance that a decision to appoint a joint presidential candidate would be based on merit and the mandate of the candidate. The parties in the Charter added that within its ranks are leaders capable of providing the leadership needed to turn the country around.