Addis Ababa, February 21, 2024(AddisWalta) South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared May 29, 2024, as the official date for the country’s upcoming general election.
In this poll, the African National Congress (ANC) ruling party faces its most significant challenge to its parliamentary majority since its 1994 victory, according to The EastAfrican News.
Key issues like unemployment, load-shedding, corruption, and inequality are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the vote outcome.
“President Cyril Ramaphosa has following section 49(2) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, read with section 17 of the Electoral Act of 1998, determined 29 May 2024, as the date for the 2024 General National and Provincial elections,” confirmed Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya on Tuesday evening.
“The President has also in line with section 17(2) of the Electoral Act 73 of 1998, consulted with the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) on the election date. Furthermore, the President convened a meeting with all 9 Provincial Premiers and the IEC to discuss the state of readiness for the General elections.”
Marking a significant year for South Africa, the 2024 elections coincide with the nation’s 30th anniversary of freedom and democracy.