- Political parties will mould the future of SA's democracy, but not enough voters know what they're all about.
- News24 hosts its first-ever Leaders Debate and quizzes SA's political leaders about the state of the nation.
- It's live! You can now watch the election debate for free in the video featured above and share it far and wide.
- Visit our Elections Hub for more election resources from News24.
There's a real possibility that the ANC's support could dip below 50% in the momentous 29 May polls. But, what are South Africa's influential opposition parties bringing to the table? And how could a coalition government work?
What are their plans to solve the unemployment crisis?
Where do they stand on BEE, universal healthcare and land justice?
Do they believe a government of national unity could be the answer for SA?
If you're looking for answers, watch News24's first-ever Leaders Debate in the full video published above.
We put South Africa's top political leaders on the spot and ask them about the national issues that will inform your decision on election day.
The ANC, IFP, DA, ActionSA and Rise Mzansi are each given a minute to answer questions posed by our moderators, News24 editor-in-chief Adriaan Basson and News24 assistant editor for politics and opinion Qaanitah Hunter.
Each participant is also afforded 30 seconds for rebuttal.
After the fiery exchange on the state of the country and hot topics like BEE, cadre deployment and corruption, each participant concludes the debate with some closing remarks.
These are the party representatives who participated in the debate:
- Khaled Sayed (ANC)
- Velenkosini Hlabisa (IFP)
- John Steenhuisen (DA)
- Herman Mashaba (ActionSA)
- Songezo Zibi (Rise Mzansi)
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) were invited to the debate but chose not to participate. President Cyril Ramaphosa was invited, but instead the ANC chose to send their Western Cape spokesperson.
The debate forms part of News24's comprehensive election coverage, which includes a country-wide elections tour, a manifesto guide, and a podcast series in conversation with parties such as the DA, Patriotic Alliance, Freedom Front Plus, UDM, and GOOD, among others.
Visit the News24 Elections 2024 Hub to find a collection of our in-depth journalism, and consider becoming a News24 subscriber to support our quality coverage.