South African parties that identify as black and progressive are rallying to secure a two-thirds majority in parliament. Their primary agenda is centered around amending the constitution to facilitate the expropriation of land without compensation, alongside other sweeping reform initiatives aimed at addressing historical injustices.
The largest entity within this coalition is uMkhonto Wesizwe Party (MKP), which has positioned itself as the official opposition since the Democratic Alliance assumed executive roles. Following a contentious result in the May 29 elections—where the MKP emerged as the third-largest party—former President Jacob Zuma declared that the elections were “rigged.” He emphasised that the real victors have been overshadowed by a coalition that he insists lacks legitimacy.
“We won; those who did not win are now pretending they have. The courts have got to listen to us,” Zuma asserted, expressing his intent to escalate the electoral dispute to international courts. This fervour came to a head as MKP celebrated its first anniversary over the weekend, with Zuma vocalising aspirations for further political disruption in the upcoming 2026 local government elections.
MKP’s ascendance has notably affected the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), notably diminishing their support in KwaZulu-Natal. The African National Congress (ANC), previously a dominant force, has now lost its majority for the first time since the end of apartheid three decades ago. Allegations of MKP poaching EFF leaders have stoked tension within the progressive caucus, which also comprises the ANC. However, Zuma refuted these claims, asserting that MKP’s appeal to the black majority creates a more viable path to electoral success.
The road to amending the constitution faces significant obstacles, as the governing coalition—known as the Government of National Unity (GNU)—currently retains the coveted two-thirds majority needed for any constitutional overhaul. The prevailing narrative within this coalition posits that South Africa’s constitution remains a robust framework, particularly in safeguarding property rights and advocating for reconciliation rather than justice for apartheid era victims.
Despite tensions, both MKP and the EFF appear poised to capitalise on potential fractures within the GNU. Zuma’s legal challenge regarding the May election results aligns with sentiments from EFF leader Julius Malema, who suggested that President Cyril Ramaphosa’s inability to execute the controversial Bela Bill could lead to his recall. “If he’s not removed now, he’s going anyway in 2027,” Malema warned, referencing factional discord within the ANC that may manifest as opportunities for opposition parties.
The deadlock continues between the ANC and the DA over pivotal legislation, including the Bela Bill and the National Health Insurance, amidst threats from the DA to exit the coalition should these transformative laws progress without their backing.