South Africa’s electoral body calls for “calm” as it tallies votes

The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) called for “calm” as it tallied votes in the country’s election, amid reports the African National Congress (ANC) party has lost its parliamentary majority.

“This is a moment that we need to manage and manage well. We are grateful that we have come this far with all of you. Don’t be tired. We are not done yet,” said IEC Chairperson Mosotho Moepya in a statement Saturday.

With more than 99% of votes counted Saturday, the once-dominant ANC had received just over 40% of votes cast Wednesday, well short of the majority it had held since the famed all-race vote of 1994 that ended apartheid and brought it to power under Nelson Mandela.

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