The future of small political parties in the post-may 29th elections in limbo, South Africa
Small political parties have played an essential role in South African democracy, notably in the post-apartheid period. South Africa’s political landscape is growing increasingly dependent on small political organizations. New political parties such as Action SA, and uMkhonto weSizwe- MK (Is a party from the African National Congress. It is placed on the left-wing to far-left of the political spectrum), and the Alliance of Citizens for Change (ACC) indicates a more evolved democracy that values multiple points of view. These small political parties are expected to play an important role in any coalition discussions following the election, as they typically attract individuals dissatisfied with the larger, more established parties. Because of South Africa’s challenges, such as unemployment, economic inequality, and popular dissatisfaction with the ruling ANC, smaller parties have an opportunity to win over disgruntled voters. The political landscape is more diverse than ever, with over 350 parties registered for the 2024 elections, as well as independent candidates. This offers a conducive atmosphere for small parties to gain traction if they properly answer voters’ concerns.
With the 2024 elections, huge changes are taking place in South Africa’s political landscape. Small political parties are becoming increasingly significant in today’s shifting democratic system. Because of socio-economic concerns and widespread voter unhappiness, the people are looking for alternatives to the African National Congress’s (ANC) long-held rule. Smaller parties may benefit from the rise of coalition politics, giving them more power in legislative and policy-making processes. Local coalition governance has been utilized in South Africa before, although with different degrees of success due to frequent instability and ephemeral relationships. Smaller parties may acquire more weight if these partnerships gain traction at the federal level.
Smaller parties, such as those included in the Multi-Party Charter (MPC), and uMkhonto weSizwe (MK), are positioning themselves to challenge the ANC’s monopoly. Though larger than very minor parties, the Democratic Alliance (DA) and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) are establishing strategic partnerships that may bring in weaker players to form a viable opposition coalition. This political plotting demonstrates how important little parties are becoming in a split political landscape. The Alliance of Citizens for Change (ACC), recently launched by Masizole Mnqasela, and Action SA, a minor party founded by former Johannesburg mayor Herman Mashaba, are gaining popularity. These parties, which attract members who sympathise with the new leaders’ promises and ideas, are sometimes the consequence of internal conflicts within more established parties. Small parties represent a variety of unique ideas, organisations, and interests that major parties may not adequately represent. This includes specific political issues, ethnic or cultural groups, and geographical interests. The Freedom Front Plus (FF+), uMkhonto weSizwe (MK), and the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) are political parties that focus on certain ethnic groups and regional problems.
Furthermore, voter engagement and turnout, especially among young people, will be critical. Low attendance has historically indicated disinterest, which minor parties may capitalise on by mobilising these groups through targeted campaigns and focusing on specific local problems that larger parties may overlook. The competitive dynamics of small parties can influence election outcomes. Small parties can influence the result of municipal and provincial elections by gaining support from larger parties. This fragmentation may push major parties to change their tactics, policies, and candidate selection to regain or maintain popular support.
Small political parties will likely continue to play key roles beyond the 2024 elections. Their influence may grow as the political landscape shifts, particularly if no party wins a landslide victory and greater collaboration and coalition building among diverse political groupings is necessary. This trend may result in South Africa’s political system being more inclusive and representational. Several parties, even minor ones, are required in a democratic society to serve as checks and balances on the ruling party or coalition. This prevents power from consolidating and promotes accountability and transparency in governance. The success of minority parties has the potential to significantly influence election-wide political dynamics. They can siphon votes away from major parties, influence turnout, and modify the landscape of post-election discussions to create governments. When organising electoral campaigns and coalition discussions, the Democratic Alliance (DA) and Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) regularly had to consider the perspectives of minor parties.
A variety of factors, including the changing political climate, demographic shifts, economic conditions, and coalition politics dynamics, will have an impact on the future of South Africa’s minority political parties. Minority parties can be represented in South Africa’s proportional representation electoral system, even if they obtain a tiny percentage of the vote. Minority parties may guarantee that their voices are heard by using this system to gain seats in both national and local legislatures. However, with the African National Congress (ANC) dominance and the Democratic Alliance’s (DA) and Economic Freedom Fighters’ (EFF) growing power, smaller parties are having a tough time attracting a substantial voter base. Coalition politics are becoming more widespread, particularly in metropolitan areas, as the ANC’s authority dwindles. Minority parties may be crucial kingmakers in these coalitions, wielding great power that is out of proportion to their modest size.
The youthful and urbanising population of South Africa may influence the future success of minority parties. Younger voters may likely be more open to different political agendas, thereby helping minority parties win new members. Furthermore, socioeconomic issues like as inequality, unemployment, and inadequate service delivery may shift voters in favour of political parties that provide practical solutions, thereby benefiting disadvantaged parties with strong local or issue-based agendas. Because of the expanding importance of social media and digital marketing, minority parties now have an affordable way of reaching out to potential voters. Using technology, these parties may generate funds, communicate with voters, and broadcast their message without the need for a large traditional campaign infrastructure. This helps to level the playing field by allowing smaller parties to outperform their size. Minority parties usually face problems due to limited financial and organisational resources. Much effort and money are required to establish a strong party structure and maintain a visible presence between elections. To remain competitive, these parties must continue to mobilise the people, have strong leadership, and have well-defined policy platforms.
Small political parties’ fates are fluid and vulnerable to change based on a variety of factors, including their ability to adapt to the needs of their followers, the effectiveness of their leadership, and the relevance of their programmes. Those who can adapt to changing circumstances and have a clear vision for the future will likely flourish, while those who cannot fade into obscurity.
Small political parties are an important component of the vibrancy and pluralism of South African democracy. Regardless of their problems, they have made invaluable contributions to political involvement, accountability, representation, and innovative policymaking. Small parties are likely to gain influence as South Africa’s political landscape changes, supporting a more diversified and active democratic society. Important developments include the establishment of tiny political parties and the involvement of independent candidates in South Africa’s 2024 elections. These changes, in addition to providing voters with more options, point to a potential shift towards a more inclusive and coalition-based political system.
Finally, small political parties in South Africa look to have a promising future after May 2024, but this will be dependent on their ability to form strong coalitions, effectively address voter issues, and galvanise support among disaffected and younger voters. The shift to coalition rule may result in a more varied and dynamic political atmosphere, marking a significant break from the ANC’s predominance. Smaller parties may play a larger role in coalition administrations as the political landscape becomes more fragmented, perhaps allowing them more control over national policies and developments. This dynamic demonstrates how South African democracy is evolving, and how citizens are beginning to demand greater accountability and representation from their political leaders.
Dr Stanley O. Ehiane is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Politics and Administrative Studies at the University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana. He writes in his capacity.
