ANC Faces Potential Coalition for the First Time in 30 Years

Johannesburg, South Africa – Early results from South Africa’s national election indicate that the long-ruling African National Congress (ANC) may lose its majority, a first in its three-decade tenure. With results counted from 22% of polling stations as of 4 p.m. local time on Thursday, the ANC has secured 43.5% of the vote. In contrast, the Democratic Alliance (DA) has 24.7%, and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have garnered 8.9%, according to the Independent Electoral Commission.

The respected Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) predicts the ANC could win less than 45% of the national poll. This scenario could force the ANC to enter a coalition to form a government. Should this happen, the ANC might need to partner with significant political parties like the DA or EFF.

The uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) Party, led by former President Jacob Zuma, has positioned itself as a strong contender in KwaZulu-Natal, securing 42.3% of the votes in the province compared to the ANC’s 20.1%.

The election faces high public interest, with an anticipated 70% voter turnout, higher than the 66% seen in 2019. The final results are expected by June 2, although they could be announced earlier.

If the ANC fails to attain a majority, it would have 14 days post-result declaration to form a government. This electoral outcome could signify a substantial shift in South African politics, potentially ending the ANC’s unbroken rule since the end of apartheid in 1994.

[Tags: South Africa, ANC, 2024 Election, DA, EFF, Jacob Zuma]