In 2024, elections across sub-Saharan Africa saw a trend of ruling parties losing power or facing significant setbacks. This shift was fueled by public frustration over corruption, economic hardships, and governance failures, coupled with increasingly organized opposition groups.
In Namibia, Swapo retained power with Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah winning the presidency with 57% of the vote, making her the country’s first female leader. However, Swapo’s dominance has waned, losing 12 parliamentary seats and barely holding its majority. Opposition parties have challenged the election results, citing logistical issues and irregularities.
Similarly, Botswana’s Democratic Party (BDP), which ruled since independence in 1966, suffered a historic defeat in October. The party won only four seats in parliament, drastically reduced from its prior 38. Meanwhile, Mauritius experienced a political transformation, with the ruling Alliance Lepep coalition securing just 27% of the vote. Opposition parties claimed 60 of the 66 parliamentary seats, marking one of the country’s most dramatic electoral outcomes.
In Senegal, opposition leader Bassirou Diomaye Faye claimed victory in the presidential election, overcoming attempts by the government to stifle dissent. His release from jail, along with fellow opposition figure Ousmane Sonko, fueled public support and secured a decisive win against the ruling party.
Even ruling parties that retained power faced challenges. South Africa’s African National Congress (ANC) fell below 50% of the vote for the first time, forcing President Cyril Ramaphosa into a coalition government. This trend of weakened incumbents reflects growing dissatisfaction with economic mismanagement, rising costs of living, and perceived authoritarian practices.
While some countries maintained control through contested elections, including Chad and Rwanda, others saw voters assert their democratic rights. Civil society groups and coalitions played key roles, with opposition parties adopting strategies to safeguard election integrity and unify their platforms.
The year’s political shifts underscore Africa’s capacity for democratic resilience, challenging the stereotype of stagnant political systems. Observers note that this trend could continue into 2025, potentially reshaping the political landscape in nations like Ghana and Malawi.