Gwede Mantashe appears to cry at the results centre as the ANC loses ground

A photograph showing ANC national chairperson Gwede Mantashe with what appears to be tears in his eyes has sparked widespread reactions on social media following the local government elections. The image, reportedly taken at the results centre in Midrand, was shared alongside a Zulu expression suggesting that some people would eventually be left crying over the election outcome.

The photograph emerged at a difficult time for the ruling ANC, which was struggling to maintain its traditional dominance as the votes continued to be counted.

With approximately 15% of the ballots counted, the ANC was reportedly sitting at around 32% nationally, narrowly ahead of the Democratic Alliance (DA), which had approximately 31%.

The party had also suffered sinificant setbacks in several municipalities, losing its outright majority in areas such as Makana in the Eastern Cape and Msukaligwa in Mpumalanga.

Although the photograph has attracted attention, it remains unclear whether Mantashe was genuinely crying or whether the camera captured him with an emotional-looking expression. He has also not been confirmed to have commented on the viral image.

Social media users have responded with jokes, criticism and political commentary. Some believe the ANC is finally experiencing the consequences of declining public support, while others have described the results as evidence of South Africa’s growing democratic maturity.

Others brought up former president Jacob Zuma, suggesting that his political warnings were becoming relevant.

As vote counting continues, attention remains focused on the ANC’s performance and how its leadership will respond to the changing political landscape. The final results will determine the full extent of the party’s electoral setbacks.

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