South Africa’s 2024 National and Provincial Elections: What You Need to Know

South Africans are gearing up for the upcoming national and provincial elections on May 29, where they will elect a new National Assembly and state legislatures. This election will mark the country’s seventh democratic general election since the end of apartheid in 1994.

The African National Congress (ANC), which has been in power for 30 years, is facing its toughest election yet, needing 50 percent of the National Assembly to maintain its parliamentary majority. The ANC has historically dominated elections since the end of apartheid, but recent opinion polls suggest that they may lose their majority this time around.

The election process in South Africa follows a proportional voting system, where parties and candidates compete for 400 seats in the National Assembly. This year, independent candidates will also be competing, adding a new dynamic to the election. Voters will receive three ballots, each requiring a choice of one party or candidate.

The results of the election are expected to be announced on Sunday, June 2, by the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC). The outcome of this election will determine the future leadership of the country and could potentially lead to a coalition government if no party secures a majority.

Key players to watch in this year’s election include the ANC led by Cyril Ramaphosa, the Democratic Alliance (DA) led by John Steenhuisen, the MK party led by Jacob Zuma, and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) led by Julius Malema. Each party brings its own platform and vision for the future of South Africa.

As South Africans prepare to cast their votes, the outcome of this election will have significant implications for the country’s political landscape and the direction it takes in the years to come. Stay tuned for more updates as the election day approaches.