South Africa: ANC loses parliamentary majority in May elections

According to Al-Jazeera (1 June 2024) and other outlets, in the national elections on 29 May 2024, the African National Congress (ANC) lost its parliamentary majority, a position it had held for the past 30 years. ANC's vote share dropped to 40%, necessitating coalition partners to form a government. Despite remaining the largest party, the ANC must seek a coalition to govern, as it cannot otherwise pass the 50% threshold.
 
World Watch Research analyst Yonas Dembele comments: “This outcome marks a significant shift in South Africa's political landscape since the end of apartheid. The ANC and South Africa post-Mandela have faced numerous challenges, especially during Jacob Zuma's tenure. The country has experienced multiple corruption allegations, often referred to as 'state capture', along with a decline in economic performance and rule of law. Therefore, this loss of majority should not surprise observers who have been following developments in South Africa and the ANC over the past years.” 
Yonas Dembele adds: “This election might not have a direct impact on Christians in the country and the region, but it is important to underscore that the country has been involved in activities related to violent Islamic militancy and the funding of terrorism through South African financial institutions. Islamist cell groups have been uncovered by the country's intelligence and in 2022 the US Treasury Department designated four members of the Islamic State in South Africa (IS) and eight companies owned, controlled, or directed by individuals belonging to the IS network in the country (US Department of the Treasury , Press Release, 7 November 2022). Therefore, it is not unreasonable to suggest that such militant groups could potentially target South Africa if the new government does not strengthen its governance.”