The 2024 South African elections celebrate a robust democracy and the strength of its institutions, with President Ramaphosa urging unity amidst the election results.
Johannesburg, South Africa (03 June 2024) – As the sun set on the most fiercely contested election in South African history yesterday, the nation stood proud, having concluded a process that tested the very fabric of its democracy.
The 2024 Elections have not only tested the strength of the country’s institutions but also showcased the resilience and determination of its citizens. Electoral Commission of South Africa Chairperson Mosotho Moepya, announcing the results at the National Results Operations Centre (ROC) in Midrand, declared the elections free and fair, a true victory for democratic practice.
“These elections were undoubtedly the most highly contested,” Moepya said. Despite numerous challenges, including targeted social media attacks and attempts to undermine the commission’s credibility, the elections were conducted with transparency, fairness, and the highest standards of integrity. The Electoral Commission put significant measures in place to safeguard the elections, ensuring the will of the people was accurately reflected.
President Cyril Ramaphosa echoed this sentiment, declaring the final announcement of the 2024 National and Provincial Elections a victory for democracy and constitutional order.
“South Africans have shown how important their vote is and that they know that their vote counts,” Ramaphosa said, commending the nation for their participation. The President emphasised that the diverse views and passionate debates during the campaign reflected a robust and enduring democracy.
The elections, held on 29 May 2024, saw millions of voters making their way to over 23,000 polling stations. With a turnout of 58.61%, the citizens of South Africa demonstrated their commitment to shaping the future of their country. The process included three ballots for the first time, reflecting the inclusion of independent candidates and enhancing democratic representation.
The results of the National Assembly are as follows:
- African National Congress (ANC) – 159 seats.
- Democratic Alliance (DA) – 87 seats.
- uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party) – 58 seats.
- Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) – 39 seats.
- Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) – 17 seats.
- Patriotic Alliance (PA) – 9 seats.
- Freedom Front Plus (FF Plus) – 6 seats.
- ActionSA – 6 seats.
- African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) – 3 seats.
- United Democratic Movement (UDM) – 3 seats.
- African Transformation Movement (ATM) – 2 seats.
- Al Jama-ah – 2 seats.
- Build One South Africa (BOSA) – 2 seats.
- National Coloured Congress (NCC) – 2 seats.
- Rise Mzansi – 2 seats.
- GOOD Party – 1 seat.
- Pan Africanist Congress of Azania (PAC) – 1 seat.
- United Africans Transformation (UTM) – 1 seat.
Regional victories highlighted the diverse political landscape, with the ANC leading in most provinces, the MK Party prevailing in KwaZulu-Natal, and the DA securing victory in the Western Cape. This distribution emphasises the dynamic and intricate nature of South African politics.
President Ramaphosa called upon all political parties to recognise the election results, highlighting that they reflect the will of the people. “What this election has made plain is that the people of South Africa expect their leaders to work together to meet their needs,” he said, urging all parties to act collaboratively for the nation’s good.
The President also praised the Electoral Commission for its professionalism and integrity, the South African Police Service and Defence Force for ensuring peace, and the media and observer teams for their essential roles. He expressed gratitude to the people of South Africa for upholding democratic values and principles.
This election paves the way for the seventh administration, set to lead the country for the next five years. As Chief Justice Raymond Zondo prepares to receive the lists of designated Members of Parliament, the nation looks forward with hope and optimism, confident in the strength and vibrancy of its democracy.
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