South African politics witnessed a monumental shift with the recent general elections. The African National Congress’ (ANC) long-standing dominance came to an end, necessitating the formation of a coalition to maintain power. This change highlights a critical moment in South African democracy amidst the growing populism within the nation.
Following the election results, the ANC faced a significant setback, securing only 40.2% of the vote, a drastic decline from previous years. The Democratic Alliance emerged as a major contender with 21.7% of the vote. Surprisingly, former president Jacob Zuma’s party, uMkhonto we Sizwe, gained traction, securing 14.5% of the vote, signaling a shift in political dynamics.
‘A sensational result’ for Jacob Zuma’s party
The unexpected surge in support for Zuma’s party underscores the evolving political landscape in South Africa. With identity politics gaining prominence, the country faces a new era of diverse political representation.