South Africa Faces Uncertainty As ANC May Lose Majority

Independent Electoral Commission officials receive results at the National Results Operations Center in Johannesburg, South Africa, Thursday, May 30, 2024, one day after South Africans voted in an ele

CAPE TOWN, South Africa (AP) — Following the recent election in South Africa, the country is facing the potential scenario of no clear winner emerging. Early results indicate that the ruling African National Congress (ANC) is currently below the 50% mark of the national vote, suggesting a possible loss of its longstanding majority.

While this outcome may be viewed as a victory for change by some opposition parties, the implications of a potential ANC loss of majority remain uncertain. Even in the worst-case scenario, the ANC is still leading in the partial results, but without a majority, forming a coalition government would be necessary.

The process of electing a president in South Africa involves lawmakers voting for parties in national elections, with the president being chosen by the Parliament after the election. With the ANC potentially facing a situation where it lacks a clear majority in the 400-member Parliament, the process of reelecting President Cyril Ramaphosa for a second term could be more complex than in previous years.

ANC still leading in partial results, but coalition government may be necessary.

ANC below 50% mark in national vote, potential loss of majority.

Election process involves lawmakers voting for parties, president chosen by Parliament.

Complex process for reelecting President Cyril Ramaphosa due to potential lack of majority.

Government formation hinges on ANC securing agreements or coalitions with other parties.

Timeline: Election results announced within 7 days, new Parliament to convene within 14 days.

Intense negotiations expected between parties to determine potential coalitions.

ANC's approach depends on margin of majority shortfall, may engage smaller or larger parties.

Coalition government formation highlights evolving political landscape in South Africa.

Outcome of negotiations will shape future governance in South Africa.

Forming a government also hinges on the ANC's ability to secure agreements or coalitions with other parties in Parliament. The outcome of these negotiations will have significant implications for the passing of laws and the implementation of government policies.

Looking ahead, the timeline for the post-election process is clearly defined. The national election results are expected to be announced within seven days of the polls closing, with the independent electoral commission aiming to declare the results by Sunday. Subsequently, the new Parliament will have 14 days to convene for its first sitting and elect a president.

The period between the announcement of results and the convening of Parliament is likely to involve intense negotiations between parties to determine potential coalitions. The ANC's approach will depend on the margin by which it falls short of a majority, with various possibilities ranging from engaging smaller parties to potentially collaborating with larger opposition parties like the Democratic Alliance or the Economic Freedom Fighters.

As South Africa navigates this uncertain political landscape, the potential for coalition government formation underscores the evolving nature of the country's political landscape. The outcome of these negotiations will shape the future direction of governance in South Africa, marking a significant moment in the country's political history.

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