An analysis of SA's political situation - 12 of 17

An aeriel view of an informal settlement in Durban. (Gianluigi Guercia, AFP)

An analysis of SA's political situation - 11 of 17

An elderly woman leaves after casting her vote. (Rajesh Jantilal, AFP)

An analysis of SA's political situation - 10 of 17

Members of the South African Parliament are seen after taking an oath during the swearing in of members of Parliament on Wednesday, May 6, 2009. (Gianluigi Guercia, AP)

An analysis of SA's political situation - 9 of 17

Jacob Zuma jokes with Cosatu's General Secretary Zwelinzima Vavi (right) and SA Communist Party (SACP) General Secretary Blade Nzimande (left) at the ANC Alliance Summit on May 9, 2008. (Werner Beukes, Sapa)

An analysis of SA's political situation - 8 of 17

A voter checks with ANC representatives to make sure her name is registered for voting in the 2009 elections outside a polling station in Alexandra Township, Johannesburg. (John Moore, AFP)

An analysis of SA's political situation - 7 of 17

Cope presidential candidate Mvume Dandala is greeted by a Kliptown resident during his campaign trail around Johannesburg on Thursday, April 9, 2009. (Werner Beukes, Sapa)

An analysis of SA's political situation - 6 of 17

UDM leader Bantu Holomisa called for opposition parties to merge into one movement strong enough to pose a serious challenge to the ANC. The UDM won only four seats in Parliament, compared to the six it won in the 2004 elections. (Johnny Onverwacht, Rapport)