The African National Congress (ANC) is grappling with power-sharing dynamics after suffering its worst election setback in 30 years, putting President Cyril Ramaphosa under intensifying scrutiny.
As the ballot count nears completion, the ANC’s share stands at 40%, a significant drop from the 58% it secured in the previous election.
Analysts suggest that the current 40% tally for the ANC falls short of the party’s anticipated worst-case projection of 45%.
Since the inception of democratic elections in 1994, where Nelson Mandela assumed the presidency, the ANC has consistently maintained a majority vote, polling above 50%.
According to a source speaking to the BBC, the ANC leadership, led by President Ramaphosa, is engaged in discussions and strategizing for forthcoming coalition negotiations.
The ANC is weighing its choices for potential coalitions, which include partnering with the DA, currently at 22%, or the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party, led by former President Jacob Zuma, with a 15% share.
With the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) securing 9% of the vote, a coalition between the ANC and the EFF would narrowly miss reaching the critical 50% threshold required for a majority.
Parliament is expected to convene within two weeks of the final election results, with the subsequent selection of a new president.
The EFF and MK advocate for contentious policies such as land expropriation and nationalization of mines, causing concerns among foreign investors.
While the MK has expressed willingness to collaborate with the ANC, it conditions its support on a leadership change, refusing to work under President Ramaphosa, who assumed office after a tumultuous power struggle with former President Zuma in 2018.
In Durban, the epicenter of KwaZulu-Natal province and the MK’s stronghold, supporters have been rejoicing overnight, marking the recent formation of the party in September.
ANC chairperson Gwede Mantashe dismissed the likelihood of an alliance with the DA, emphasizing the necessity for “policy alignment” in coalition negotiations.
Mantashe underscored the ANC’s unwavering commitment to its black empowerment policies, crucial for addressing historical inequalities stemming from apartheid, labeling them as “non-negotiable” in any coalition discussions.
The party’s dwindling support can be attributed to widespread discontent fueled by rampant corruption, soaring unemployment rates, and escalating crime levels.
Expressing frustration over the cost-of-living challenges and persistent power outages, one voter revealed to the BBC her departure from the ANC, which she had faithfully supported for three decades, in favor of the center-right Democratic Alliance (DA) in the recent election.
The final results will be announced at 18:00 local time (17:00 BST) on Sunday.
