Ruling African National Congress takes early lead in elections

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Source: CCTV.com | 04-23-2009 19:30

Vote counting continues in South Africa's general elections. The ruling African National Congress or ANC took an early lead and is expected to propel party leader Jacob Zuma to power.

South Africa's ruling African National Congress (ANC) leader Jacob Zuma (C) talks to the media after casting his vote  in Nkandla April 22, 2009. South Africans voted on Wednesday in an election expected to preserve the dominance of the ANC despite the strongest opposition challenge since apartheid  ended 15 years ago. REUTERS/Rogan Ward

Polling officials estimate 80 percent of a record 23 million registered voters cast ballots. Preliminary results showed the ruling ANC with over 60% of the 2.8 million votes counted.

The main opposition Democratic Alliance held some 25 percent. But some stations had reportedly temporary ballot shortages or struggled because ballot boxes filled so quickly.

The ANC views Zuma as the first leader who can energize voters since the legendary Nelson Mandela. Many analysts believe the ANC will win over 60 percent of the vote, but short of the 70 percent it won in 2004.