South Africa’s ruling African National Congress (ANC) recorded its worst-ever performance in the country’s most recent local government elections, losing control of a significant number of municipalities and seeing its vote share fall to historic lows.
The result marks a sharp decline for the party that has governed South Africa since the end of apartheid in 1994, and it reflects growing voter dissatisfaction in urban and rural areas alike.
President Cyril Ramaphosa called on South Africans to accept the outcome, stating that “the verdict must be respected” and urging calm and unity as the nation processes the election results.
ANC secretary‑general, however, described the outcome as “catastrophic,” warning that the party faces a critical juncture and must confront the challenges highlighted by the electorate.
Analysts note that the ANC’s deteriorating support could reshape the political landscape ahead of upcoming national elections, as opposition parties look to capitalize on the ruling party’s setbacks.
<small>Source: BBC Africa — read the original story there.</small>
