Youthful voters shake up Southern Africa’s political landscape in 2024
Several of Southern Africa’s long-established liberation parties faced unprecedented challenges in 2024 as younger electorates demanded tangible economic progress and job opportunities. Although democracy in this region is relatively stable compared to areas of the continent plagued by coups and military rule, the once-unquestioned loyalty to parties that fought colonialism has rapidly eroded.
Botswana provided a striking example of this shift when the Botswana Democratic Party—governing since the country’s 1966 independence—lost to an opposition alliance. Opposition supporters draped in blue and white filled the streets in celebration, marking an end to the BDP’s 58-year rule after voter frustration over youth unemployment and an ailing diamond-based economy.
In South Africa, the African National Congress, famous for its role in dismantling apartheid under Nelson Mandela, saw its share of the vote plunge from 57.5% to 40%. This decline forced it to form a coalition government for the first time, reflecting growing dissatisfaction with corruption, poor service delivery, and chronic economic distress.
Namibia’s long-ruling SWAPO party narrowly maintained its majority, with Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah becoming the country’s first female president. Even so, SWAPO’s worst parliamentary result since 1990 underscored the region-wide shift in voter priorities.
Analysts note that young people across Southern Africa are increasingly disillusioned with “struggle credentials,” preferring leaders who can deliver clear economic and social benefits. Political scientist Nic Cheeseman believes “generational change” and a strong desire for employment and dignity are key factors in this transformation. Meanwhile, researcher Nicole Beardsworth highlights that stable democratic systems now create real consequences for parties that fail to meet public expectations—heralding a new political era throughout the region.
