South Africa’s 2024 elections marked a historic shift as it saw the African National Congress (ANC) lose its parliamentary majority for the first time since 1994. As a result, the ANC was forced to form a coalition government with ten other parties. This political shake-up sparked a notable rebound in public optimism, with Afrobarometer data revealing a jump from 14% to 39% in citizens believing the country is on the right path. Support for democracy also surged, with satisfaction with how it works in South Africa rising from 36% to 59%. Beyond this, many respondents also expected the coalition to yield improved electricity supply, better job creation, and stronger anti-corruption efforts. While the government appears to have met expectations on electricity, there has been no notable progress on unemployment. As citizens look to the new government for lasting change, the true test will be turning hopeful sentiment into sustained democratic progress.
The Conversation
