Why it matters
The result could affect local governments and the ANC’s role in national politics. The supplied reports identify no direct U.S. consequence; South Africans and political parties negotiating municipal coalitions are most directly affected.
What happens next
Parties will negotiate to govern municipalities where no party won outright. The ANC is also considering whether to end its national coalition with its main rival; no decision is reported.
Which parties form municipal coalitions
Whether the ANC changes its national coalition arrangement
How the result affects the ANC's next leadership contest