PRETORIA — South Africa concluded its 2024 National and Provincial Elections, marking the transition toward its seventh administration set to govern for the next five years. The official results were declared by the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) during a Sunday ceremony at the national Results Operations Centre, attended by President Cyril Ramaphosa among other dignitaries.

According to South African Government News Agency, the elections witnessed a significant voter engagement with over 16 million votes cast, reflecting a turnout of 58.61%. This year’s elections were notably competitive, featuring three ballots to accommodate independent candidates, a first in the nation's electoral history. The African National Congress (ANC) secured the majority in the National Assembly with 159 of the 400 seats. Other parties like the Democratic Alliance (DA) and the uMkhonto weSizwe party (MK party) also made substantial gains, securing 87 and 58 seats, respectively.

The ANC's dominance extended across several provinces, with notable majorities in the Eastern Cape, Free State, and Limpopo, among others. The MK party notably led in KwaZulu-Natal, capturing 19 seats. In the Western Cape, the DA emerged victorious, reflecting the province's unique political landscape.

IEC Chairperson Mosotho Moepya confirmed the election's integrity, declaring the results free and fair, adhering to the strict provisions of the Electoral Act of 1998. The list of elected representatives was formally presented to President Ramaphosa, setting the stage for the next administrative term.

Chief Justice Raymond Zondo is scheduled to receive the official list of Members of Parliament this Thursday, in preparation for presiding over the inaugural session of the National Assembly.