South Africa's ruling ANC suffers worst-ever election setback

South Africa's ruling African National Congress (ANC) has suffered its worst-ever electoral setback in the country's latest local government elections. The party secured just 30.76% of the vote, marking a sharp decline from its 45.59% share in 2021. The Democratic Alliance (DA) finished second with 24.64%, while former President Jacob Zuma's MK Party secured 9.76%. The results reflect growing voter dissatisfaction over corruption, unemployment and poor public services. The setback also sets the stage for complex coalition negotiations across several major cities.