The African National Congress (ANC), South Africa’s ruling party, is leading in the latest election results with over 70% of the votes counted. However, the ANC is struggling to secure a majority.
With 68.8% of voting districts declared, the ANC holds 41% of the votes. The Democratic Alliance (DA) follows with 22%, while former President Jacob Zuma’s uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party has garnered 12%.
If the ANC fails to secure more than 50% of the vote, it will need to form a coalition government. Analysts suggest the ANC will likely remain the largest party, but must consider coalition options urgently.
Pauline Bax, deputy director of the Africa Program at International Crisis Group, emphasized that the ANC has been reluctant to face the possibility of a coalition. “The choices for the party are clear, and they need to start thinking about alliances,” she said.
Turnout was estimated at 58.39%. Official results are expected by Sunday, June 2.
Scenes from the Election
Voter turnout was high, with long queues seen across the country on May 29. Despite delays, 92% of voters felt the elections were fair, according to a survey by the Human Sciences Research Council.
Impact on ANC’s Vote
The MK party, led by Zuma, has significantly impacted the ANC’s vote share. Oscar van Heerden, a researcher, noted that many voters are seeking more radical policies than those offered by the ANC.
Awaiting Major City Results
Sanusha Naidu from the Institute for Global Dialogue highlighted that results from major cities like Durban and Johannesburg are still pending. These could potentially shift the current standings.
Early results have caused investor uncertainty, with many concerned about the implications of a coalition government. Ivailo Vesselinov, chief strategist at Emso Asset Management, stated that the final tally could still change the outlook significantly.
