South Africa Election: ANC’s Majority at Risk as Country Heads to Polls

South Africa is gearing up for a crucial general election in late May, with the African National Congress (ANC) facing the possibility of receiving less than 50% of the vote for the first time in three decades. The mounting criticism of the party, which played a pivotal role in the fight against apartheid, has eroded its support and raised the prospect of a coalition government.

President Cyril Ramaphosa, who currently leads the ANC, is under increasing pressure due to high unemployment rates, economic disparities, corruption allegations, and frequent power outages. In addition, the country is grappling with soaring levels of violent crime, further denting confidence in the ruling party.

Despite these challenges, the ANC is striving to address these issues and is highlighting the progress made since the end of apartheid. The party has pledged to create millions of new jobs, attract investments, support the private sector, and eradicate corruption.

On the opposition front, the Democratic Alliance (DA) aims to liberalize the economy, create millions of jobs, and tackle issues like power cuts and violent crime. The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), the third-largest party in parliament, advocates for radical economic solutions to address the lingering racial economic disparities from the apartheid era.

Adding an element of uncertainty to the election is Jacob Zuma, the former president who now leads a new party called uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK), named after the ANC’s former armed wing. Zuma’s presence in the race, especially in his home province of KwaZulu-Natal, adds a new dynamic to the electoral landscape.

With South Africans set to cast their votes on 29th May, the outcome of the election remains uncertain. The final results are expected to be announced by Sunday, 2nd June, with the formation of a coalition government being a possibility depending on the distribution of seats in the National Assembly.

As the country prepares for this historic election, the future direction of South Africa hangs in the balance, with the potential for significant political shifts and policy changes on the horizon.