South Africa Elections: Voters Eager to Cast Ballots in Closely Fought Race
Voters of all generations in South Africa were eager to cast their ballots in what is being seen as the country’s most closely fought elections since the African National Congress (ANC) came to power 30 years ago.
Long lines snaked outside polling stations across the country, with one electoral official in Johannesburg comparing the queues to the historic 1994 election that saw Nelson Mandela become president.
Despite polls officially closing at 2100 local time, many people were still waiting to vote, but the electoral commission assured that everyone would be allowed to cast their ballots.
The first results are expected to start coming in on Thursday morning, with final results anticipated over the weekend. The ANC, which has faced criticism over corruption, crime, and unemployment, could potentially lose its majority in parliament according to opinion polls.
Change was a recurring sentiment among voters, especially the younger generation. Ayanda Hlekwane, a member of South Africa’s “born-free” generation, expressed optimism for change despite facing challenges in finding employment.
A record 70 parties and 11 independents were running in the elections, reflecting a sense of disillusionment with the ANC. Analysts believe that South Africa is entering a new phase of democracy, with the possibility of a more competitive political landscape.
While the main opposition party, the Democratic Alliance (DA), has formed a coalition pact with other parties, the ANC is still expected to remain the biggest party. Current President Cyril Ramaphosa is likely to retain power as South Africans do not directly vote for a president.
Former President Jacob Zuma’s new party, uMkhonto weSizwe (MK), is expected to perform well in his home province of KwaZulu-Natal. Security measures, including police and army deployment, were put in place to ensure peaceful voting.
With over 27 million registered voters, the youth demographic could play a significant role in the outcome of the elections. Support for the ANC is expected to be higher among the older generation, emphasizing the importance of every vote cast.
As South Africa awaits the election results, the country is poised for potential political shifts that could shape its future.
