South Africans vote in pivotal election challenging ANC's 30-year rule

South Africans are participating in an election considered the most significant in 30 years. The African National Congress (ANC), which has led the country since the end of apartheid in 1994, is facing significant challenges, with discontent rising among the population of 62 million, half of whom are estimated to live in poverty. The ANC, which has won six consecutive national elections, may lose its parliamentary majority for the first time, potentially necessitating a coalition to maintain President Cyril Ramaphosa's leadership.

The election features a record 27.79 million registered voters and includes independent candidates on the national and regional ballots for the first time. The ANC has seen a steady decline in support, from 69% in 2004 to 57% in the last election. Opposition parties such as the Democratic Alliance (DA) and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have gained traction, and new parties formed by former ANC members, including former President Jacob Zuma's uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK), are also in the fray. Voting is taking place across South Africa's nine provinces, with the International Election Council reporting high voter turnout. Weather conditions are expected to be favorable, with measures in place to manage any potential disruptions.