2024 elections | South Africa decides in crucial polls

JOHANNESBURG - The heartbeat of South Africa echoes with anticipation as millions are casting their votes.

ANC president Cyril Ramaphosa cast his vote in Soweto.

"I have no doubt whatsoever in my heart of hearts that the people will once again invest confidence in ANC to continue leading this country," Ramaphosa said.

"The people of SA will give the ANC a firm majority."

But DA leader John Steenhuisen predicted no single party would win an outright majority, creating an opening for his alliance of smaller parties.

After voting in his home city of Durban, Steenhuisen said "for the first time in 30 years there's an opportunity for change in South Africa".

Voters will choose the 400 members of the National Assembly who in the coming weeks will then choose a president from among their number. 

Full results are not expected before the weekend.