South African Local Elections: Preliminary Results & Potential Consequences

SOUTH AFRICA - In Brief 05 Aug 2016 by Iraj Abedian

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Over the past 48 hours, SA Local Government (Municipal) Elections (LGE 2016) results have been taking shape gradually and systemically. The country's Independent Electoral Commission(IEC) conducted its largest election exercise since 1994 within a fairly professional, tightly secure, and totally transparent framework. Prior to August 3rd, there were many nay-sayers and much speculation about the independence of the IEC and its capacity to cope with the much heightened political tension within the country. After all, it was the first time that the governing and dominant ANC-alliance was likely to receive a serious knock, especially in the metropolitan centers of the country. As it turned out, the IEC managed the election process competently, and there has not been any major complaints or breach of the electoral codes of conduct. And, with the exception of one or two minor incidents, in over 22000 election stations, the voters cast their votes peacefully and timely. The participation rate among the registered voters is recorded at 57% at present- roughly 13 million voters participated. At the time writing, over 90% of the votes are counted, and it is becoming obvious that the ANC alliance has lost an estimated 8% support of the overall voters. Whereas its support level back in 2011 LGE was 62%, currently it is hovering at around 54%. This is the party's worst performance since 1994. More seriously, much of its loss has obtained in the metropolitan centers. The ANC alliance used to control 7 out of 8 Metros prior to 3rd August 2016. As of now, it has lost two, and 2 Metros remain in the balance as the counting of votes continue, but it is likely to retain its control of 4...