JOHANNESBURG: Following a significant electoral setback in South Africa’s recent election, the ruling African National Congress (ANC) announced on Sunday its intention to hold talks with other political parties to form a new government. The ANC’s decades-long absolute majority came to an end as it faced a dramatic decline in support.
With 99.91 percent of the votes tallied from Wednesday’s election, the ANC, led by President Cyril Ramaphosa, secured only 40.2 percent of the vote, marking a significant decrease from the 57.5 percent it attained in 2019.
In response to the election results, ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula emphasized the party’s commitment to establishing a government that reflects the will of the people and is capable of governing effectively. Mbalula stated that the ANC will hold internal discussions and negotiations with other political parties in the coming days.
This electoral outcome represents a historic turning point for South Africa, as the ANC has maintained an absolute majority since 1994, when Nelson Mandela led the country out of apartheid and into democracy.
Mbalula acknowledged the message conveyed by the election results, noting the concerns, frustrations, and dissatisfaction expressed by the electorate. He assured the people of South Africa that their voices had been heard.
While the final results are yet to be formally announced, President Ramaphosa is scheduled to deliver an address during an official ceremony near Johannesburg.
READ ALSO: India Aiding Israel in Gaza Genocide by Supplying Lethal Explosive, Bombs
However, some parties, including former President Jacob Zuma’s uMkhonto weSizwe (MK), have raised concerns about discrepancies in the vote count. Despite lacking evidence, Zuma warned electoral authorities against finalizing the announcements. The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has responded by ordering recounts in 24 instances.
With the ANC losing its absolute majority, it must now consider coalition options with other parties. The Democratic Alliance (DA), the second-largest party, has expressed willingness to explore various possibilities, including allowing the ANC to govern as a minority government.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), a radical leftist party, holds potential as a coalition partner. However, challenges may arise as former ANC members Julius Malema and Jacob Zuma lead the EFF and MK, respectively, with their strained relationship with the ANC leadership.
