Know Afrika

  The nation is on edge as the African National Congress (ANC) takes on the unusual job of picking a coalition partner to govern South Africa. Last week's election saw the ANC lose its legislative majority for the first time in three decades of democracy , failing to garner more than half of the vote. Historic Election Results Since the fall of apartheid in 1994, the ANC has continuously controlled all elections. However, disillusioned people, disgruntled by continued unemployment, inequality, and continuous power outages, gave the party only 40.2% of the vote, a considerable decrease from 57.5% in the last election five years ago. Although the ANC remains the largest party, its diminished vote share makes it impossible to rule alone, plunging South Africa into unknown territory In his weekly address on Monday, President Cyril Ramaphosa stated, “This moment in our country calls for responsible leadership and constructive engagement.” Coalition Negotiations Potential coalition part...

  In an election deemed the most significant in 30 years for their nation, South Africans began voting Wednesday in schools, community centers, and large white tents set up in open fields . This election could place the young democracy in uncharted territory. President Cyril Ramaphosa, accompanied by his wife Tshepo Motsepe, cast his vote in the Soweto Johannesburg township. The African National Congress (ANC), which has dominated for three decades and led South Africa out of apartheid in 1994, now faces a new generation's discontent in a nation of 62 million people, half of whom are said to live in poverty. With an unemployment rate of 32%, Africa’s most developed economy reflects some of the most severe socioeconomic issues worldwide. Despite its slogan of "a better life for all," the persistent inequality—with poverty and joblessness disproportionately affecting the black majority—threatens the ANC's hold on power. After six consecutive national election victories,...