Former Mandela party ANC suffers election defeat in South Africa

The African National Congress (ANC) faced a historic defeat in South Africa's local elections, securing only 31% of the votes. This marks a significant decline for the party that once led the fight against apartheid. The Democratic Alliance (DA), a predominantly white liberal party, garnered nearly 25%. The ANC lost majority control in six out of eight metropolitan areas, including major cities like Pretoria and Johannesburg, where the DA is expected to form coalitions excluding the ANC. Voter dissatisfaction stems from high unemployment, rampant crime, and corruption. This defeat follows the ANC's loss of absolute majority in the June 2024 parliamentary elections, leading to a coalition government with all represented parties.