First results indicate South Africa’s African National Congress (ANC) is on course to retain power, but with a smaller majority. Issues around corruption and unemployment kept voter turnout low.
With about 72% of ballots counted, the African National Congress (ANC) is predicted to win around 57% of the vote. If the result stands, it will be the party’s worst electoral showing since it came to power 25 years ago.
The national and provincial elections are the first since President Cyril Ramaphosa replaced former President Jacob Zuma last year.
The voter turnout was relatively low in Wednesday’s poll – dropping to 65% compared to 74% in 2014 – as voters said they were disillusioned by widespread corruption and unemployment.
The election commission said final results may not be declared until Saturday.
