South Africa’s vote 2024: Early results show ANC losing majority

South Africa's leading African National Congress (ANC) party appears to be on the brink of losing the parliamentary majority it has held for the past 30 years, marking what could be a significant political shift in the country since the end of apartheid. As early results trickle in, indicating a possible loss of majority for the ANC, the political landscape in South Africa is poised for a potential upheaval. The buzz and tension surrounding the election results are palpable, with political stakeholders closely monitoring the evolving situation. With 18.71% of the votes from polling stations counted, the ANC's grip on power seems to be slipping, leading to speculation about potential coalition formations and the emergence of new power dynamics. Fifi Peters, CNBC Africa's senior anchor, reported live on the unfolding events, highlighting key developments and reactions from various political players. According to Peters, ANC Chair Gwede Mantashe expressed the party's resilience in the face of the early setbacks, emphasizing that it is premature to draw definitive conclusions about the final outcome. Mantashe dismissed questions about coalition talks and downplayed concerns about the rising influence of the MK party in KwaZulu-Natal, a potential coalition partner. The focus now shifts to the prospect of coalition governments, with smaller parties being eyed as potential partners in a post-ANC governance scenario. As coalition discussions loom, parties have expressed cautious optimism about the final results, underscoring the need for a thorough assessment of the electoral process and a commitment to transparency. The looming prospect of the ANC losing its majority has invigorated smaller parties like the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) and Action SA to intensify their campaigns and consolidate their positions. The IFP, buoyed by its gains in various regions, including historically ANC-dominated areas, sees the election as a crucial juncture for the party's resurgence and growth. Notably, the rise of the MK party in KwaZulu-Natal has heightened the competition, setting the stage for a potential showdown between the IFP and the emerging political force. Action SA, led by Herman Mashaba, is also closely monitoring the results, particularly in urban centers and townships where it expects strong support. The party remains optimistic about its performance, citing promising results in key regions such as Gauteng and the Eastern Cape. While initial figures place Action SA in sixth place with around 1.98% of counted votes, party representatives emphasize the importance of waiting for a comprehensive tally before drawing firm conclusions. As the election landscape continues to evolve, uncertainties persist about the final outcome and the potential realignments in South African politics. The ANC's declining majority, coupled with the rise of alternative parties, signals a period of transition and transformation in the country's political sphere. Ultimately, the unfolding developments underscore the need for vigilance, patience, and a commitment to democratic principles as South Africa navigates a pivotal moment in its electoral history.