On May 29th, 2024, nearly 16 million South Africans went to the polls and cast their votes in the general election. The results were clear: for the first time in nearly thirty years, the African National Congress (ANC) lost its majority in the National Assembly. With the nation and party facing mounting challenges, including economic hardship, a severe energy crisis, and waning public trust, the ANC was forced to confront a hard reality: it would now have to form a coalition government to remain in power. This election not only reflected deep-seated frustration with the ANC’s governance over the past three decades, but also demonstrated a rising demand for accountability and broader representation in the South African federal government.

Senegal has served as a shining example of a successful West African democracy, as the country is the only West African nation never to suffer a coup d'etat since gaining independence in 1960 and one of the few to have peaceful transitions of power since the early 1990s. However, during this past election cycle, that tradition came dangerously close to being broken by outgoing incumbent President Macky Sall of the Alliance for the Republic Party (APR). How did this happen and how has the new administration fared?

In 2024, the global political landscape is marked by pivotal elections, including the anticipated rematch between Donald Trump and Joe Biden, the United Kingdom's general election, and India's general election. Africa is also hosting a number of elections this year, which will likely play a seminal role in shaping regional and international politics. Let’s take a closer look at three of the most important elections happening this year on the continent: Elections in Ghana, Senegal, and South Africa.