South Africa’s ANC losses send municipalities towards coalition talks
South Africa’s African National Congress stood at about 31 per cent with 99 per cent of municipal election votes counted. Many councils lacked a single-party majority, making negotiations necessary to form administrations. The Democratic Alliance was preparing talks, while the ANC’s secretary-general acknowledged a severe setback and pledged to address the party’s failings.
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Near-complete count leaves many councils without a majority
South Africa’s African National Congress (ANC) had about 31 per cent of votes with 99 per cent counted in the municipal elections on 8 November. The provisional results left many councils without an outright majority and parties preparing for coalition talks. The Democratic Alliance (DA), the ANC’s principal rival, stood at about 25 per cent in the nationwide count. Former President Jacob Zuma’s uMkhonto weSizwe party followed at roughly 10 per cent.[1], [2]
Johannesburg’s government depends on party negotiations
No party passed 50 per cent in many cities, including Johannesburg, South Africa’s commercial hub. The DA led there with about 35 per cent against 20 per cent for the ANC. Forming municipal administrations therefore requires agreements among parties. The parties have 14 days for negotiations before city councils are formed. The DA said it would approach groups committed to accountable government, fighting corruption and delivering public services.[1]
Mbalula acknowledges a severe setback for the ANC
ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula described the result on Saturday as a severe setback for his party. He said the voters’ message called for putting the party’s house in order, adding that it would not beg for positions in coalition negotiations. The ANC’s local election support has fallen over the past 15 years, against a background of failures in basic services including water and electricity. Final election results had not been declared in the reported counting snapshot.[1]
