South Africa’s ruling African National Congress (ANC) has lost its majority in parliament for the first time in 30 years, winning only 159 seats (40% of the vote) in the National Assembly.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) came second with 87 seats (22% of the vote), while the newly-formed uMkonto weSizwe party, led by former President Jacob Zuma, secured 58 seats (14.59% of the vote).
President Cyril Ramaphosa acknowledged the outcome, emphasizing the importance of respecting the electorate’s decision.
DA leader John Steenhuisen expressed willingness to negotiate a coalition government with the ANC and other parties to prevent Zuma’s potential return to power.
The election results mark a significant shift in South Africa’s political landscape, paving the way for coalition governance for the first time since the end of apartheid.