ANC records worst-ever result in South Africa local elections

The African National Congress (ANC) suffered its poorest performance in South Africa’s local elections, securing just 31% of the national vote, according to the official count released on Saturday.

While the party still topped the poll, its share fell from 46% in 2021 and 65% two decades ago. The ANC managed a majority in only Limpopo province, down from six provinces in 2021, and led in just two of eight major cities, compared with six previously. The Democratic Alliance (DA) finished second with 25% of the vote and retained control of Cape Town. Former president Jacob Zuma’s MK party placed third with 10%, overtaking the ANC in Durban, and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) came fourth with 6%.

Secretary‑general Fikile Mbalula described the outcome as “catastrophic”, saying “We knew this disaster is coming, we're staring at it. As we got into elections, the cost of living of our people was too high. The middle class have turned on the ANC in big numbers.” President Cyril Ramaphosa, speaking as he entered the counting centre on Sunday, said “We accept the will of the people however concerning it might be, we accept that this is how the people of South Africa in our towns, in our cities, in our metros have spoken - and this is their verdict, we accept it with humility. It is a decline that is concerning, that is how I characterise it.”