In a significant shift, the African National Congress (ANC) suffered its worst-ever electoral showing since Nelson Mandela's leadership, securing just 31% of votes compared to 46% in 2021 and a stark contrast to the 65% in the late 90s. The party lost control of several provinces and cities, winning majorities only in Limpopo province and two out of eight cities. Meanwhile, the Democratic Alliance (DA) maintained its second position with 25%, retaining majority control over Cape Town city. Jacob Zuma's MK party displaced the ANC in Durban, while the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) came fourth, a decline from their once-threatening status. The poor service delivery and infrastructure issues have been identified as the primary reasons for the ANC's decline. Political analysts believe this election delivers a devastating message to the ANC, signaling its decline at local, metropolitan, provincial, and national levels. The elections also saw a shift in voting patterns, with the DA gaining more black votes, suggesting a move towards post-racial voting patterns in South Africa. Now, South Africa faces days of local coalition building, potentially leaving the ANC out of power in cities like Johannesburg and Pretoria. Experts suggest this marks a new era in South African politics, where voters prefer coalitions over dominant parties.