South Africa's upcoming election, set to be the most dramatic since the end of apartheid in 1994, will not be marred by violence, ruling party chief Jacob Zuma said Friday.

"We have noted fears expressed by some opinionmakers that the 2009 elections may be fraught with violence. We should not encourage such pessimism," he told reporters.

"You have my assurance, there will be no violence."

He was addressing reporters in Cape Town ahead of national voter registration this weekend for South Africa's fourth election since breaking out from under white minority rule.

Zuma, who vowed earlier this year his party would "rule until Jesus comes back," said he did not feel threatened by a breakaway party that is splitting from the ruling African National Congress (ANC).

"We are ready to take on all political parties on the electoral commission list. The more the merrier," he said.

Zuma has been campaigning around the country as the ANC attempts to discourage disgruntled supporters from joining the new splinter group.

The breakaway faction announced Thursday night it would register a party Monday, under the name Congress of the People, after a one-day convention in Johannesburg last week was attended by about 7,000 delegates and supporters of the new formation.

Concerns about violence have risen as Zuma's vocal supporters, including ANC youth wing leader Julius Malema, have mentioned civil war and threats to "kill" for Zuma.

Denouncing the new party last week, Malema warned it could lead to violence.

"We run the risk of breeding a monster that will take our country to civil war," he said.

Zuma said the party was "preaching there is a need for tolerance."

"We have talked to the young man Malema. All young men at their age, they are very vocal about issues -- they have not yet reached a point of choosing their words."

AFP