South Africa in for Historic Election: ANC’s Reign in the Balance Amid Coalition Speculation
Polling stations commenced operations at 7 am (05:00 GMT) and will close at 9 pm (19:00 GMT) for the national and provincial elections in South Africa, potentially marking a significant moment in the African National Congress’s (ANC’s) three-decade reign. With a record-breaking seventy parties participating, the prospect of a coalition government emerges, marking a departure from the single-party dominance post-apartheid. Anticipation looms as preliminary results are anticipated shortly after polls shut, with the final tally set for announcement on Sunday.
How does South Africa’s election function?
Voters exercise three votes on election day: one for a political party, determining their share of the 200 seats in the National Assembly; another for provincial representation in the National Assembly, distributing the remaining 200 seats based on provincial population size; and the third to elect members of the provincial legislature. Unlike direct presidential elections, the 400 National Assembly members elect the president within 30 days of the general election.
Who is participating in the election?
A crowded field of seventy political parties and eleven independent candidates will vie for seats in the national and provincial elections, with fifty-two parties contesting the national ballot.
What are the primary opposition political parties?
The Democratic Alliance (DA), led by John Steenhuisen, emerges as the principal opposition, open to coalition possibilities should they fail to secure a majority. Advocating for increased privatization, the DA criticizes the current government, branding South Africa in a state of “crisis”. The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), under Julius Malema, champions nationalization of key sectors like mining and banking. The MK Party, led by former President Jacob Zuma, despite being disqualified due to past criminal convictions, still commands attention in the political landscape.
Who is favored to win the election?
Polls hint at a potential ANC victory below the 50% threshold for the first time since 1994, potentially necessitating a coalition, although the constitution lacks specifics on coalition governance.
Who is the likely future president of South Africa?
President Cyril Ramaphosa of the ANC stands poised to retain office, barring internal challenges, given the party’s anticipated lead.
When will the results be known?
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) legally has seven days to declare the full results, yet partial results are usually disseminated shortly after polling stations close.
