Counting under way in South Africa’s crucial election
Votes are being counted in South Africa’s most closely contested election since the African National Congress (ANC) came to power 30 years ago. Long lines formed outside polling stations nationwide, reminiscent of the historic 1994 election.
Despite polls officially closing at 2100 local time (1900 GMT), the electoral commission assured that everyone still in line would be allowed to vote. Initial results are expected to begin arriving Thursday morning, with final results anticipated over the weekend.
The ANC has seen a decline in support due to widespread dissatisfaction with corruption, crime, and unemployment. Opinion polls indicate the party could lose its parliamentary majority. A record number of 70 parties and 11 independents participated in the elections for a new parliament and nine provincial legislatures, reflecting growing disillusionment with the ANC.
The main opposition party, the Democratic Alliance (DA), has formed a pact with 10 other parties to potentially create a coalition government if they secure enough votes to oust the ANC. However, it is expected that the ANC will remain the largest party, positioning it to lead a coalition if its support drops below 50%. In the last election, the ANC received 57.5% of the vote compared to the DA’s 21%.
South Africans vote for members of parliament, who then elect the president. Consequently, current President Cyril Ramaphosa is likely to remain in power.