Over the past 30 years, South Africa has witnessed a relatively stable number of political parties with seats in the National Assembly, hovering around 14. However, the landscape shifted in 1999 with the emergence of the Democratic Alliance (DA) and the decline of the New National Party (NNP). The African National Congress (ANC), Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), DA, and Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have emerged as key players in the upcoming 2024 elections.

Recent additions to the political scene include the Congress of the People (Cope) and the EFF, while the uMkhonto we Sizwe Party led by former president Jacob Zuma presents a new contender. The possibility of a national coalition government in 2024 marks a potential turning point, with the ruling ANC facing the risk of losing its dominant position.

This evolution in South African politics reflects a global trend towards multiparty systems, challenging the once-unchallenged status of long-standing parties. The outcome of the 2024 elections could redefine the political landscape in South Africa, paving the way for new coalition dynamics and shifts in power.