The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has urged for “calm” as it tabulates votes in the nation’s election, amidst indications that the African National Congress (ANC) party may have forfeited its parliamentary majority.
In a statement on Saturday, IEC Chairperson Mosotho Moepya expressed the need to handle the situation effectively, stating, “This is a moment that we need to manage and manage well. We are grateful that we have come this far with all of you. Don’t be tired. We are not done yet.”
With over 99% of votes counted by Saturday, the once-dominant ANC had secured slightly above 40% of votes cast on Wednesday, falling considerably short of the majority it has held since the historic all-race vote of 1994 that marked the end of apartheid and ushered it into power under Nelson Mandela.
The final results are pending formal declaration by the independent electoral commission overseeing the election.
Initially, the commission had announced intentions to formally announce the results by Sunday, though this timeline may be accelerated.
While opposition parties have celebrated the outcome as a significant advancement for a nation grappling with profound poverty and inequality, the ANC remains the largest party by a significant margin.
Nevertheless, it is now likely that the ANC will need to seek a coalition partner or partners to maintain governance and secure the re-election of President Cyril Ramaphosa for a second and final term. In South Africa, the president is elected by parliament following national elections.
