In Mozambique, anti-government protests erupted following disputed election results, with opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane claiming victory over ruling party Frelimo's candidate, Daniel Chapo. The protests, largely driven by disaffected youth, have led to violent clashes with security forces, resulting in over 20 deaths. International observers criticized the election as unfair, and human rights groups condemned the use of force. The crisis is seen as the most significant challenge to Frelimo since the civil war's end in 1992, with regional tensions rising as South Africa closed a major border crossing due to the unrest.

South Africa's national unity government faces internal tensions over differing views on the Russia-Ukraine war, with the African National Congress (ANC) and Democratic Alliance (DA) at odds. President Cyril Ramaphosa's friendly stance towards Russia at the BRICS Summit has sparked criticism from DA leader John Steenhuisen. The ANC's nonaligned position on the conflict is seen by critics as influenced by ties with Russia. The coalition's consensus-based decision-making is challenged by these foreign policy disagreements. Despite the tensions, experts believe the coalition will remain intact, with larger domestic issues posing greater threats to its stability.

Daniel Chapo, the ruling party candidate from Frelimo, has been declared the winner of Mozambique's presidential election, securing 70.67% of the vote amid allegations of vote-rigging by opposition parties and international observers. The election, held on October 9th, also saw Frelimo gaining parliamentary seats, while new entrant Podemos and Renamo trailed behind. Tensions have escalated with protests and civil unrest following the announcement, particularly after the killing of Venâncio Mondlane's aides, which has been condemned by international bodies. The EU's election observation mission reported irregularities, and Mondlane has called for a national strike to protest the alleged election rigging.

South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa criticized the current global governance structures at the UN Summit of the Future, advocating for more inclusive representation, particularly for the Global South. The African Union has long sought reform of the UN Security Council, pushing for permanent seats for African nations. Despite some Western proposals for reform, African nations remain skeptical, viewing them as insufficient. The Brics group, including South Africa, is seen as a growing influence, though not necessarily in opposition to the West. Experts emphasize the need for reform rather than replacement of existing global governance institutions.

South Africa's new coalition government, formed by the African National Congress (ANC) and various political parties, is navigating a more stable political environment following the contentious general election. Despite initial concerns about cooperation among ideologically diverse parties, there is growing optimism about the coalition's potential to address economic challenges. Democratic Alliance leader John Steenhuisen, now a minister, highlights the positive collaboration and the development of a new five-year plan. However, challenges remain, including potential strains during upcoming local elections and the ANC's internal leadership transition. Analysts caution that the coalition's unity will be tested in the coming years.

Russian mercenaries, particularly those associated with the Wagner Group, have intensified their activities in Africa following the death of their leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin, in a plane explosion. Research by the Armed Conflict Locations and Event Data (Acled) indicates a significant increase in violence involving Russian troops in Africa, with notable involvement in Mali supporting military rulers against Tuareg rebels. The Wagner Group has been restructured and rebranded as Africa Corp, with Russia's government now openly acknowledging its role and financing. The group's activities have expanded to several African countries, with expectations of further influence and potential direct engagement in violence.

The African National Congress (ANC) expelled former South African president Jacob Zuma for breaching its constitution by collaborating with the newly formed uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) Party. Zuma led the MK Party into the general election while claiming ANC membership, resulting in the ANC losing its parliamentary majority. The MK Party became the third largest in parliament, while Zuma was banned from becoming an MP due to a prior contempt of court conviction. The ANC's support fell to 40.18%, necessitating a coalition government. Zuma has three weeks to appeal the expulsion, with the MK Party criticizing the disciplinary process.

President Cyril Ramaphosa's new multi-party cabinet in South Africa, involving six opposition parties, has been criticized by various factions, including the Economic Freedom Fighters, for allegedly abandoning the African National Congress's historical role as a liberation movement. The coalition government, formed after the ANC lost its parliamentary majority, includes the Democratic Alliance and the Freedom Front Plus, sparking concerns about white interests being prioritized. Despite positive statements from coalition members, significant ideological differences, particularly regarding economic policies, pose challenges to effective governance.

Cyril Ramaphosa has been reelected as South Africa's president following a coalition agreement between the African National Congress (ANC) and several opposition parties, including the Democratic Alliance (DA) and Inkatha Freedom Party. The ANC's support fell to just over 40% in the 2024 national poll, necessitating a coalition to secure Ramaphosa's presidency. The coalition marks a shift towards national-level coalition politics in South Africa, with the DA gaining leadership roles in exchange for its support. The agreement outlines decision-making processes and guidelines for policymaking and budget finalization.

President Cyril Ramaphosa's call for a national unity government has received mixed reactions from South Africa's opposition parties. Following the ANC's failure to secure a majority in the recent election, the party seeks a broad alliance rather than a coalition with a single major party. The Democratic Alliance expressed concerns over the inclusivity of the offer, while the Economic Freedom Fighters and uMkhonto weSizwe have reservations about joining a government with the ANC. Smaller parties demand clarity on the new government's agenda before committing. South Africa's political parties have 14 days to form a new government.