South Africa Elect

Today 23 million registered voters will decide between 156 political parties that have registered in South Africa's 4th general election held since the apartheid era.

It is likely that the ANC (African National Congress) will remain in power under the leadership of Jacob Zuma (pictured far right). Under their charismatic leader Nelson Mandela (pictured middle) the ANC have faught against white minority rule. The issues facing South Africa continue with HIV, crime, unemployment and education at the top of the agender.

The rise of COPE (Congress of the People) could gain 10% of the vote despite an unsuccessful election campaign . The break away party from the ANC formed in 2008 and was backed by former president Thabo Mbeki.

South Africa's President will be chosen from the party with the majority vote by the National Assembly after the election.

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