South Africa elections: ANC marks its worst-ever performance
South Africa's ruling African National Congress (ANC) secured less than 31% of the vote in municipal polls, its worst-ever performance.
The ANC's final tally from Wednesday's municipal elections was published on Sunday, revealing a historic decline.
The party secured less than 31% of the vote, falling short of its previous results and handing the opposition a significant victory.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) won just under 25% of the vote, marking a strong performance for the pro-business opposition.
Coalition talks loom in major cities
The ANC lost its majority in six of the eight metropolitan regions, according to the South African Electoral Commission.
With no outright winner declared in several major cities, politicians are now expected to enter tough coalition talks to form municipal governments.
The DA is set to keep control of Cape Town after winning an absolute majority and performed well in Pretoria and Johannesburg.
"All of the cut and thrust that comes with the election is now over, and it is time now... to put together governments that can actually fix these towns and cities," DA leader Geordin Hill-Lewis told reporters.
ANC blames service failures for voter backlash
The ANC's decline reflects growing voter frustration with water and electricity shortages, high unemployment, and widespread corruption.
ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula acknowledged the catastrophic outcome, stating the party must work to win back public confidence.
President Cyril Ramaphosa admitted in his weekly letter that "municipal failures have contributed to declining public trust and confidence in democratic governance."
Historic decline for the ruling party
The ANC had governed with an absolute majority for most of its history until losing it in the 2024 general election.
Political analyst Daniel Silke described the result as the ANC's worst in history, warning it would undermine the party's authority at both local and national levels.
Once led by Nelson Mandela, the ANC is now facing a future without a majority, forcing it into coalition negotiations with smaller parties.
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