Southern Africa’s 2024 elections heralded transformative political shifts, as long-dominant liberation-era parties grappled with waning influence.
The region, historically stable compared to other parts of Africa, saw voters demanding action over legacy, signaling a generational pivot.
In Botswana, opposition supporters clad in blue and white flooded streets after the Botswana Democratic Party’s 58-year rule ended dramatically.
Youth unemployment and economic struggles eroded goodwill for the liberation-era party, paving the way for a new leadership era.
President Mokgweetsi Masisi conceded defeat before final tallies, marking a significant political milestone in the diamond-rich nation.
South Africa’s May elections saw the African National Congress (ANC) lose its parliamentary majority for the first time since apartheid’s end.
The ANC’s drop to 40% support reflected widespread discontent over corruption, service failures, and economic stagnation among young voters.
Namibia also faced change as SWAPO’s Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah became the nation’s first female president, narrowly preserving her party’s majority.
SWAPO’s worst parliamentary results since 1990 signal that liberation struggle credentials may no longer secure unwavering voter support.
Mozambique’s October election sparked deadly protests as Frelimo retained power, with opposition leader Venancio Mondlane challenging the results.
Amnesty International reported at least 100 deaths during demonstrations, highlighting tensions around perceived democratic backsliding.
Political expert Nic Cheeseman described this era as “shifting tectonic plates,” driven by demands for jobs and government accountability.
Even in Mauritius, Africa’s most stable democracy, opposition coalitions swept parliamentary seats, ousting long-standing Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth.
Across the continent, younger leaders like Senegal’s 44-year-old Bassirou Diomaye Faye are rising, reflecting Africa’s youthful population’s aspirations.
The 2024 elections underscored a growing trend: voters demanding responsive governance, rejecting empty promises of historic liberation victories.