Southern Africa’s 2024 elections marked a major shift as liberation-era parties faced growing challenges.
Botswana’s opposition ended the Botswana Democratic Party’s 58-year rule, driven by economic struggles and youth unemployment.
In South Africa, the ANC lost its majority for the first time since apartheid, reflecting dissatisfaction with corruption and service failures.
Namibia saw SWAPO’s Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah become the first female president, but the party’s slim parliamentary victory signals a shift.
Mozambique’s election sparked deadly protests, with opposition leader Venancio Mondlane contesting Frelimo’s continued rule.
Political expert Nic Cheeseman noted the shift is driven by young voters demanding jobs and accountability over historic legacies.
Mauritius ousted its longtime leader as an opposition coalition took control, while Senegal elected a young leader, Bassirou Diomaye Faye.
Across the continent, voters are rejecting outdated political systems, seeking responsive governance and change for the future.
