The newly formed Patriotic Alliance (PA) and uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) could potentially become kingmakers in the 2024 elections. This is evident from the initial votes that they have garnered as results continue to come in from various parts of the country.

PA DOING WELL IN WESTERN CAPE

Under the leadership of former convict and businessman Gayton McKenzie, the PA has experienced notable growth in the Western Cape, positioning itself as the third-largest party in the region. With 8% of the votes counted in the province, the PA currently holds the third spot after the DA and FF Plus. Additionally, the party has made strides in Gauteng, surpassing ActionSA to claim the fifth position, and is ranked fourth in the Northern Cape.

CURRENT PROJECTIONS

On the other hand, in KwaZulu Natal, the MK Party led by former President Jacob Zuma is leading the province, followed by the African National Congress and Inkatha Freedom Party. Surprisingly, the party has secured the fourth position in four provinces, indicating significant growth for a party that is less than a year old.

The possibility of the PA and MK Party emerging as key players in these elections is looming given their strong presence in various regions, provinces, and nationally. As per the latest data released by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), the ANC maintains its lead with the Democratic Alliance (DA) closely behind, followed by the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF). In a statement, the IEC chief electoral officer, Sy Mamabolo, urged for patience. "The final results and seat allocation for the National Assembly and Provincial Legislatures Elections will be announced by the Electoral Commission within 7 days of the election. As per the Electoral Act, the Commission has a seven-day window to declare the results. Historically, we have been able to announce the results well within this timeframe and will strive to do so with these elections," Mamabolo said.

He added, "The Electoral Commission thanks key role players in this election, political parties and independents at the National Political Liaison, Provincial Political Liaison Committee and the Local Political Liaison Committee. We continuously engage in the unfolding election process and deal with the issues arising from the operations in various sites of the 23 292 voting stations," he said.