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In 2024, the ruling parties of several Southern African nations – Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia, and South Africa – were shaken by rapid shifts in voting patterns that eroded their dominance. These elections may mark a turning point in Southern African politics, signalling the decline of long-standing liberation parties that have governed since decolonisation. Once unassailable, they now face growing discontent, particularly among young voters. The elections left these parties with two choices: reform and democratise to address popular demands, or rely on institutional manipulation to maintain power.

This research piece was produced in collaboration with the European Democracy Hub — an analytical centre that brings together expertise on democracy. The Hub explores the challenges affecting democratic politics in an effort to support democratic governance in Europe and around the world. The European Democracy Hub is a joint initiative of Carnegie Europe and the European Partnership for Democracy.