Jacob Zuma's MK Party Falls Short of Outright Victory in KwaZulu-Natal by 5%

In the recent provincial elections, Jacob Zuma's uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) secured 45.3% of the vote in KwaZulu-Natal, falling short of an outright victory by 5%. This leaves the formation of a provincial government in a state of uncertainty.

Why this matters: The outcome of the provincial election in KwaZulu-Natal has significant implications for the future of South African politics and governance. The formation of a coalition government could lead to a shift in power dynamics and influence the country's policy direction.

The MKP, which emerged largest party in KwaZulu-Natal in its electoral debut, has also become the third-largest party nationally. Despite this significant achievement, the party's inability to secure a majority has complicated Zuma's route to forming a provincial government.

The results have forced coalition governments at both national and provincial levels for the first time in South Africa's history. Political parties, including the MKP, have lodged objections to the election results, with some requests appearing genuine while others seem frivolous.

Dean McPherson, the Democratic Alliance (DA) provincial chairperson, was seen at the Electoral Commission of SA's (IEC) results operation centre at the Durban International Convention Centre, engaged in phone calls likely discussing potential coalition partners. McPherson declined to reveal whom he was speaking to, fueling speculation about the DA's coalition plans.

Despite winning the most votes in KwaZulu-Natal, the MKP has rejected the outcome of the general elections and requested a manual recount. The IEC has concluded the capturing and auditing of its results in the province, but the MKP's request for a recount has added to the uncertainty surrounding the formation of a provincial government.

The MKP's spokesperson, Nhlamulo Ndhlela, stated that the party wants a commission inquiry established to investigate alleged discrepancies in the capturing of election results. Ndhlela claimed that the elections have been rigged.

The African National Congress (ANC) has suffered its worst election result in 30 years, securing only 40% of the vote, down from 58% in the previous election. The ANC's poor performance has led to a hung parliament, with no single party holding a majority.

John Steenhuisen, leader of the DA, expressed concerns about a coalition with the MKP and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), stating, "I think instability is not in the best interest of the country. A coalition with the radical left in South Africa of the MK party and the EFF will produce the same policies that destroyed Zimbabwe, destroyed Venezuela."

The ANC is currently discussing coalition options, including a potential alliance with the DA or the MKP. A coalition between the MKP and the EFF, which secured 9% of the votes, would fall just short of the required 50%.

The election results have led to a complex situation, with no single party holding a majority, making it difficult to form a government. The possibility of a unity government or even a coin toss to determine the next premier of KwaZulu-Natal remains on the table.

The MKP's performance in KwaZulu-Natal has given Jacob Zuma significant leverage in coalition talks, potentially allowing him to play a key role in shaping the province's future.

Key Takeaways

• MK Party wins 45.3% of votes in KwaZulu-Natal, short of outright victory.
• Coalition governments likely at national and provincial levels in South Africa.
• MKP rejects election results, requests manual recount, citing discrepancies.
• ANC suffers worst election result in 30 years, securing only 40% of votes.
• Complex coalition talks underway, with MKP holding significant leverage.