- The ANC leads with 43%
- Final results are anticipated over the weekend.
- A record 70 parties and 11 independents participated
South Africa’s recent elections, considered the most closely contested since the African National Congress (ANC) came to power 30 years ago, have yielded initial results.
With around 19% of voting districts counted, the ANC leads with 43%, followed by the Democratic Alliance (DA) with 25%, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) with 9%, and the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party) with 8%.
Final results are anticipated over the weekend. Projections suggest the ANC may lose its parliamentary majority for the first time since 1994.
The initial results indicate significant losses for the ANC, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal, where former President Jacob Zuma’s MK Party has gained support.
Zuma’s decision to leave the ANC and campaign for MK has had a notable impact. Despite being barred from running due to a contempt of court conviction, his name remains on the ballot as MK leader.
The elections saw long lines of voters, with key issues including corruption, unemployment, and crime.
A record 70 parties and 11 independents participated, indicating widespread disillusionment with the ANC.
Analysts predict a significant transition in South Africa’s democracy, potentially leading to a more competitive and mature democracy or increased political fragmentation.
