The African National Congress (ANC) has lost its majority in South Africa’s National Assembly, securing only 159 out of the 400 seats. This marks a pivotal moment for the party that once stood as the beacon of liberation under the leadership of Nelson Mandela.
The ANC’s dominance in South African politics has been unchallenged since the end of apartheid in 1994. For decades, the party has been synonymous with the struggle for freedom and equality, carrying the legacy of iconic leaders like Mandela. However, recent years have seen a steady decline in its support base, driven by internal factionalism, corruption scandals, and failure to address pressing socio-economic issues.
President Cyril Ramaphosa, who has been at the helm since 2018, is facing mounting pressure from both opposition parties and factions within his own party. Despite the calls for his resignation, Ramaphosa has made it clear that he intends to remain in office. “Resigning is not an option,” he stated in a press briefing. “We must face the challenges head-on and work towards restoring the trust of the South African people.”
The recent election results reflect a dramatic shift in the political landscape:
- African National Congress (ANC): 159 seats
- Democratic Alliance (DA): 121 seats
- Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF): 65 seats
- Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP): 20 seats
- Freedom Front Plus (FF+): 15 seats
- Other Parties: 20 seats
The ANC’s loss of majority is indicative of a broader trend of disillusionment among South African voters. Analysts point to a combination of poor voter turnout and a growing desire for alternative leadership as key factors in the election outcome.
Ramaphosa’s tenure has been marred by a series of challenges, including economic stagnation, high unemployment rates, and persistent allegations of corruption within the government. His administration has struggled to deliver on promises of reform and economic revival, leading to frustration and discontent among the populace.
The President’s refusal to step down suggests a determination to steer the party through this turbulent period. However, he faces a daunting task of unifying the fractured ANC and regaining public confidence.
The ANC’s loss of majority is a wake-up call for the party that has dominated South African politics for the past three decades. It must now navigate a complex political environment, likely requiring coalitions and alliances to pass legislation and govern effectively.
For opposition parties like the Democratic Alliance and the Economic Freedom Fighters, this presents an opportunity to increase their influence and push for their agendas. The shift in power dynamics could lead to significant changes in policy and governance in the coming years.
