South Africa election: ANC leads as votes counted

Votes are being counted in South Africa’s election, with President Cyril Ramaphosa hoping to prevent a slide in support for the governing African National Congress (ANC).

With results declared in some 70% of districts, it has won about 57% of the ballot, well ahead of the opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) on 22%.

The ANC took 62% at the last general election in 2014.

Anger over the economy and corruption may have eroded its appeal.

The radical Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), is in third place with 10%, based onthe official early results.

Turnout was about 65% in the twin parliamentary and provincial elections – a drop compared to the 73% registered five years ago.

Some six million young people didn’t register to vote.

Full results are due on Saturday.