Even before the first vote is cast, South Africans have a great deal to celebrate
It also promises to be SA’s most fascinating election since 1994. While nothing could surpass the power and awe of the first expression of democracy in 1994, this election will also hold a place in history.
There has been much debate on radio and television chat-shows on electoral choices. While in the past, black people might have been reluctant to admit support for the DA, that is no longer the case. Now, thousands don the party’s T-shirts, attend its rallies and will turn out on election day.The rise of the EFF over the past five years has invigorated debate and put taboo subjects — like the expropriation of land and white domination of the economy — on the public agenda.
It all makes for a fascinating contest in which the ANC could fall below 50% for the first time in Gauteng, the country’s economic powerhouse. The growing possibilities for coalition governments — coming after coalitions in 2016 in three of the country's largest cities — is also a good development for the future of democracy.
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