Friday, 10 Oct 2025
  • Calculators
  • My Feed
  • My Interests
  • My Saves
SUBSCRIBE
gauteng-news-logo-2025 gauteng-news-logo-2025
  • Lifestyle
  • Entertainment
    Entertainment
    Movie reviews, TV scoops, viral moments — your daily dose of fun and pop culture.
    Show More
    Top News
    protective hairstyles
    10 Protective Hairstyles for Natural Hair This Winter
    June 6, 2024
    Miss South Africa 2024 Top 16: Who Will Take The Crown?
    Miss South Africa 2024 Top 16: Who Will Take The Crown?
    July 9, 2024
    New iPhones to Launch in South Africa Simultaneously with U.S. at iStore
    New iPhones to Launch in South Africa Simultaneously with U.S. at iStore
    September 11, 2024
    Latest News
    Dvsn to Headline Once Upon a Time in Joburg
    October 10, 2025
    Celebrity News: ‘Hamba Juba’ Star Breaks Down as Manager Admits to Stealing Money
    October 9, 2025
    JMPD Warns of Traffic Chaos Ahead of Travis Scott Joburg Show
    October 9, 2025
    Alberton Gears Up for 2025 PPS Road Race on November 9
    October 8, 2025
  • Sports
    Sports
    Comprehensive coverage of all your favourite sports — from football to athletics.
    Show More
    Top News
    africa cup of nations semi finals
    Africa Cup of Nations: AFCON 2024 Semifinals Fixtures to Watch
    February 7, 2024
    AFCON Semi-Final
    AFCON Semi-Final Heartbreak for South Africa as Nigeria Clinches Victory
    February 8, 2024
    Bafana Bafana Celebrating Semi-finals Qualification
    Nigeria vs South Africa LIVE: AFCON Semifinals H2H, Predictions
    February 8, 2024
    Latest News
    Carling Knockout Cup Quarterfinal Dates and Venues Confirmed
    October 10, 2025
    Kaizer Chiefs Confirm Nabi Departure, Appoint New Coaching Duo
    October 10, 2025
    Kaizer Chiefs’ Jessica Motaung Joins FIFA Men’s Football Stakeholders Committee
    October 10, 2025
    Hugo Broos Defends Makgopa: “I Don’t Owe Anyone an Explanation for Makgopa”
    October 10, 2025
  • Finance
    Finance
    Smart money moves, personal finance tips, and SA’s financial pulse.
    Show More
    Top News
    Capitec Bank
    How To Download the Capitec App in 2024
    March 5, 2024
    National Minimum Wage
    Unpacking The Impact Of the National Minimum Wage Increase In 2024
    February 7, 2024
    how to register your car on bolt
    Super Quick Guide on How to Register Your Car on Bolt or Uber in 2024
    February 29, 2024
    Latest News
    Ex-Bank Worker Accused of Using Client Info for Fake Loan Applications
    September 25, 2025
    Repo Rate Remains Unchanged, Meeting Economist Expectations
    September 19, 2025
    Repo Rate Cut: A Welcome Move Due to Stable Rand and Improved Economic Outlook
    September 8, 2025
    Economists Predict Repo Rate Cut in September as Inflation Remains Low at 3%
    July 24, 2025
  • Politics
    Politics
    Stay informed with the latest political news and updates from South Africa and around the globe. This category dives deep into government policies, elections, political…
    Show More
    Top News
    The Political Parties of South Africa: A Guide for the Upcoming Elections
    The Political Parties of South Africa: A Guide for the Upcoming Elections
    February 20, 2024
    African National Congress
    African National Congress (ANC): From Liberation Movement to Governing Party in South Africa
    February 16, 2024
    South African Political Rallies
    South African Political Rallies: Parties, Issues, and Election Hype
    February 27, 2024
    Latest News
    Good-Bosa-Rise Mzansi Merger: What It Means for SA’s 2026 Coalition Politics
    October 6, 2025
    2026 Local Government Elections: IEC Registers 13 New Political Parties in Just One Month
    August 27, 2025
    Local Government Elections Set to Take Place Between November 2026 and January 2027
    August 27, 2025
    DA Claims US Rejected Ramaphosa’s Special Envoy Mcebisi Jonas
    July 16, 2025
  • Motoring
    Motoring
    Explore everything about cars in this dedicated category! From the latest vehicle launches and expert reviews to maintenance tips, industry news, and car-buying advice, we’ve…
    Show More
    Top News
    Festival of Motoring 2024 Kicks Off This Weekend
    Festival of Motoring 2024 Kicks Off This Weekend
    August 28, 2024
    The Salary You Need to Afford the New VW Tiguan in South Africa
    The Salary You Need to Afford the New VW Tiguan in South Africa
    September 19, 2024
    Chery Unveils New Bakkie Model Set to Launch in South Africa
    Chery Unveils New Bakkie Model Set to Launch in South Africa
    October 21, 2024
    Latest News
    Lesufi Pushes Cashless Taxi Payments to Fight Crime in Gauteng
    October 9, 2025
    Warning Issued Over New Number Plates in South Africa
    October 8, 2025
    BMW Recalls 12,491 Vehicles Sold in South Africa Since 2016
    October 7, 2025
    New Renault Kwid Facelift Spotted Ahead of Official Launch
    October 3, 2025
  • Tech
    Tech
    Gadgets, apps, trends, and tips — decoding tech for the everyday reader.
    Show More
    Top News
    Capitec Bank
    How To Download the Capitec App in 2024
    March 5, 2024
    AI Expo Africa
    AI Expo Africa: A Brilliant Technological Showcase
    November 3, 2023
    Cool Prompts for Meta AI
    Cool Prompts for Meta AI – Unlock its Potential!
    April 16, 2024
    Latest News
    WhatsApp to Introduce Ads: What You Need to Know About the Upcoming Change
    June 20, 2025
    Donald Trump Unveils New Gold Smartphone ‘Made Entirely in the US’
    June 18, 2025
    Why Does Mobile Data Expire in South Africa? MPs Demand Answers from Network Providers
    June 17, 2025
    South Africans Should Say Goodbye to Bank Cards: Embrace Virtual Cards and Tap-to-Pay Wallets
    June 10, 2025
  • Travel & Leisure
  • Weather
  • Tenders
  • Zodiac Signs
  • Jobs
  • Government Jobs
  • Private Sector Jobs
  • Bursary
  • Internships
  • NSFAS
  • Lotto
  • Daily Lotto
  • Lottery
  • Lotto Plus 1
  • Lotto Plus 2
  • Lotto Tools
Breaking News
Cedrick Nkabinde Claims He’s Targeted After Police Raid
Gauteng Govt Denies Claims Amapanyaza Operate Illegally
LATEST NEWS IN THEMBISA: SIU Seizes Lamborghinis & Assets of Tembisa Hospital Tender Kingpin
Hoërskool Centurion Teacher Fired Over Rape Allegations
Latest News in Thembisa: Two Women Die from Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Phomolong
Font ResizerAa
Gauteng.NewsGauteng.News
Search
  • Home
  • Lifestyle
    • Attractions & Experiences
    • Leisure
    • Gauteng Eats
    • GP Loves Kids
  • Motoring
  • Finance
    • Currency Conversion
  • Jobs
    • Government Jobs
    • Private Sector Jobs
  • Sports
    • Soccer
    • Rugby
    • Netball
    • Cricket
  • Entertainment
  • Politics
    • Local Politics
    • International Politics
  • Tech
  • Grants
    • SASSA
    • NSFAS
    • UIF
    • Business Grants
  • Lotto
    • Daily Lotto
    • Lotto Plus 1
    • Lotto Plus 2
    • Powerball
  • Weather
Have an existing account? Sign In
Follow US
© 2025 Gauteng.News . All Rights Reserved.

Site Navigation: Home » Government & Grants

Government & GrantsPolitics

The Political Parties of South Africa: A Guide for the Upcoming Elections

Thembelihle Sishi
Last updated: February 20, 2024 1:53 pm
Thembelihle Sishi
10 Min Read
3k Views
Share
The Political Parties of South Africa: A Guide for the Upcoming Elections
SHARE

As South Africa approaches its upcoming elections, the political atmosphere is buzzing with activity. The nation’s democracy is characterised by a multi-party system, allowing a wide range of political parties to contest in both national and provincial elections. These parties represent a variety of ideologies, catering to the diverse interests of South Africa’s population. Below is an overview of the political parties of South Africa:

Contents
  • A Guide to the Political Parties of South Africa
  • African National Congress (ANC)
  • Democratic Alliance (DA)
  • Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF)
  • Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP)
  • Freedom Front Plus (FF+)
  • United Democratic Movement (UDM)
  • Other Notable Parties
  • A Few of the Newer Political Parties of South Africa:
  • Independent Candidates
  • Where to Find More Information:
  • Conclusion

A Guide to the Political Parties of South Africa

African National Congress (ANC)

The African National Congress (ANC) has been the ruling party in South Africa since the end of apartheid in 1994. Founded in 1912, it is the country’s oldest political party. The ANC played a pivotal role in the struggle against apartheid, with Nelson Mandela being one of its most famous leaders. It is a centre-left party, advocating for policies aimed at addressing inequality, and poverty, and promoting social justice.

Democratic Alliance (DA)

The Democratic Alliance (DA) is the main opposition party. It was formed in 2000, succeeding the Democratic Party (DP) that had been established in the late 1980s. The DA advocates for liberal democracy, the rule of law, and a market-driven economy. It has a strong support base in urban areas and has been governing the Western Cape province.

Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF)

Founded in 2013 by former ANC Youth League President Julius Malema, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) is a far-left political party. The EFF advocates for radical changes to South Africa’s economic policies, including the nationalization of industries and land expropriation without compensation. The party has quickly gained popularity, especially among the youth and those disillusioned with the traditional political establishment.

Read more: EFF’s Promise of an Increase in Social Grants.

Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP)

The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) is a predominantly Zulu party that was founded in 1975 by Mangosuthu Buthelezi. The party has its stronghold in the KwaZulu-Natal province. The IFP promotes federalism and the preservation of Zulu culture and traditions. It has played a significant role in South Africa’s political landscape, especially during the transition from apartheid to democracy.

Freedom Front Plus (FF+)

The Freedom Front Plus (FF+) is a conservative political party that primarily represents the interests of the Afrikaner minority. Founded in 1994, the party advocates for minority rights, self-determination, and the protection of Afrikaner cultural heritage. The FF+ has been vocal against affirmative action policies and land reform programs that it views as discriminatory against white South Africans.

United Democratic Movement (UDM)

The United Democratic Movement (UDM) was established in 1997 by Bantu Holomisa, a former senior member of the ANC. The UDM is a centrist party that advocates for ethical governance, the eradication of corruption, and the improvement of public services. It seeks to appeal to voters across racial and ethnic lines.

Political Parties of South Africa

Other Notable Parties

Several other parties play crucial roles in South Africa’s political landscape, including the Pan Africanist Congress of Azania (PAC), the African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP), and the Socialist Revolutionary Workers Party (SRWP), among others. These parties, while smaller in size, contribute to the vibrant and diverse political discourse in the country.

A Few of the Newer Political Parties of South Africa:

ActionSA:

Founded: 2020

Leader: Former Johannesburg mayor Herman Mashaba.

ActionSA positions itself as a centrist party focused on good governance, fighting corruption, and addressing service delivery failures. It is gaining a lot of support after the recent municipal elections.

Patriotic Alliance (PA):

Founded: 2013  

Leaders: Controversial businessmen Kenny Kunene and Gayton McKenzie. 

The PA appeals strongly to feelings of being misunderstood, employing populist language with controversial themes of economic nationalism and xenophobia.

African Transformation Movement (ATM):

Formed: 2018

ATM draws some of its roots from religious organisations. They espouse strong positions on moral issues and promote a version of African nationalism focused on economic progress.

Good Party (GOOD): 

Formed: 2018  

Leader: Patricia de Lille

Established by a former mayor of Cape Town, the party centres on good governance, fighting corruption, and social upliftment programs. It also emphasises collaborative approaches instead of confrontation in politics.

Build One South Africa (BOSA):

Founded: 2020

Leader: Mmusi Maimane

Maimane is a passionate former leader of the Democratic Alliance. His party positions itself as a fresh option advocating for a non-racial society, strong ethical leadership, and market-based policies.

Political Parties of South Africa

Important Considerations

  • “New” is relative in politics. While the parties listed above were all founded within the last few years, their growth trajectories and impact vary considerably.
  • Smaller and recently formed parties may struggle to secure representation in national or provincial legislatures due to South Africa’s electoral system.
  • It is essential to investigate beyond these brief spotlights to fully understand the ideology and activities of any new political party you may find interesting.

Arise South Africa

Founded: 2022

Leader: Mpho Dagada

Ideology: Describes itself as a broad-based, solutions-oriented political movement prioritizing community involvement. Key issues they target include corruption, inadequate service delivery, unemployment, and crime. While less pronounced in their official messaging, elements of their campaign rhetoric can touch on populist and occasionally anti-immigrant themes.

Note: Relatively new with less publicly available information about their core stances and policy proposals.

Rise Mzansi

Founded: 2022

Leader: Songezo Zibi

Ideology: Centres on issues of land redistribution, economic justice, and addressing corruption. Rise Mzansi places heavy emphasis on anti-immigration sentiments and criticises current land reform policies. They promote patriotic economic ideas in response to challenges facing South Africa.

Note: Their language often features populist messaging aimed at those who feel isolated from the current political climate.

MK Party

Founded: 2023

Leader: Jabulani Sibongiseni Khumalo

Ideology: Launched in Soweto on 16 December 2023 (Reconciliation Day), marking the 62nd anniversary of the founding of uMkhonto weSizwe (MK), the party aims to renew the mandate of the original MK that was established in 1961. Former President Jacob Zuma attended the official December campaign in support of the new party. He also announced that he would no longer be voting for the ANC but will remain a member.

All Game Changers

Duduzane Zuma:  Son of former president Jacob Zuma. He has announced his intented formation of a new party: All Game Changers. He has been conducting actions, like public appearances, solidifying his interest in running in the 2024 general elections.

Important Notes

  • Both Arise South Africa and Rise Mzansi are new parties still working to establish a political foothold. Their impact and endurance in the South African political arena are still unclear.
  • When encountering less established parties, it is always important to consult multiple sources to get a balanced view of their platform and actions.

Independent Candidates

There are independent candidates in South African politics, although the ability to run in national and provincial elections is relatively new. 

Important Notes:

  • South Africa has a multi-party system, so many other smaller parties exist beyond this list.
  • Political party ideologies can be complicated, and these descriptions serve as a short overview.
  • Party standings and influence change over time, due to elections and ongoing political shifts in the country.

Where to Find More Information:

  • Wikipedia’s List of Political Parties in South Africa: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_political_parties_in_South_Africa
  • South African Government Listing of Political Parties: https://www.gov.za/links/political-parties-organisations-0
  • The Electoral Commission of South Africa: https://www.elections.org.za/

Conclusion

As South Africa gears up for the upcoming elections, the electorate is presented with a wide selection of choices. These political parties of South Africa offer distinct visions for the future of the nation, reflecting the diverse aspirations and concerns of the South African people. Voters are encouraged to engage with the policies and platforms of these parties to make informed decisions at the polls.

TAGGED:Elections 2024Political Parties in South AfricaPolitical Parties of South Africa
Share This Article
Email Copy Link Print
Previous Article Department of Small Business Development Join the Department of Small Business Development (2x Job Opportunities)
Next Article Hlompho Kekana Sundowns Icon Hlompho Kekana Shares Verdict On January Signings
3 Comments

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Gauteng Events

Dvsn to Headline Once Upon a Time in Joburg

Dvsn to Headline Once Upon a Time in Joburg

October 10, 2025
Alberton Gears Up for 2025 PPS Road Race on November 9

Alberton Gears Up for 2025 PPS Road Race on November 9

October 8, 2025
Hey Neighbour Festival 2025 Cancelled: Refunds Still Pending

Hey Neighbour Festival 2025 Cancelled: Refunds Still Pending

October 1, 2025
Lights Out Party @ The View Bedfordview – 11 Oct 2025

Lights Out Party @ The View Bedfordview – 11 Oct 2025

September 30, 2025
Soweto Marathon Set for November 29

Soweto Marathon Set for November 29

September 19, 2025
- Advertisement -
Ad image

Your Trusted Source for Accurate and Timely Updates!

Our commitment to accuracy, impartiality, and delivering breaking news as it happens has earned us the trust of a vast audience. Stay ahead with real-time updates on the latest events, trends.
FacebookLike
XFollow

You Might Also Like

UIF Benefits 2025: Common Mistakes to Avoid for a Smooth Application Process
UIFFeaturedGovernment & GrantsGuide

UIF Benefits 2025: Common Mistakes to Avoid for a Smooth Application Process

May 1, 2025
Government & GrantsFinanceGuideSASSA

What to Do if Your SRD Grant Identity Verification Fails: Steps to Resolve the Issue

October 23, 2024
Donald Trump Unveils New Gold Smartphone ‘Made Entirely in the US’
Breaking NewsNewsPoliticsTech

Donald Trump Unveils New Gold Smartphone ‘Made Entirely in the US’

June 18, 2025
South Africa Eyes Starlink Deal with Elon Musk Ahead of Trump Meeting
Breaking NewsInternational PoliticsNewsPolitics

South Africa Eyes Starlink Deal with Elon Musk Ahead of Trump Meeting

May 21, 2025
gauteng-news-logo-2025 gauteng-news-logo-2025

About US

Stay informed on the news impacting Gauteng and South Africa. Gauteng.News covers politics, finance, lifestyle, events, and essential updates.

Your reliable source for 24/7 news in Gauteng.

About
  • Home
  • Privacy Policy
  • Newsletter
  • Sponsored Posts
  • Contact us
Useful Tools
  • PAYE & UIF Calculator
  • Rent vs Buying Calculator
  • Grocery Calculator
  • Car Affordability Calculator
  • Salary Estimator Calculator
  • Fuel Cost Calculator
  • Salary Calculator
  • Inflation Calculator
© 2025 Gauteng.News
All Rights Reserved.
Welcome Back!

Sign in to your account

Username or Email Address
Password

Lost your password?