The African National Congress (ANC) came within a whisker of receiving a two-thirds majority in the national elections, according to the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) results system.

The party received a 65,90% win of the 17 680 729 valid votes cast. It received the support of 11 650 748 voters, 65,90% of the votes.

The Democratic Alliance, the official opposition party received a 16,66% of votes with 2 945 829 South Africans backing the party.

Newcomer Congress of the People received 7,42% with 1 311 027 votes.

The final voter turnout was recorded as 17 919 966 (77,3%). This was of the 23 181 997 South Africans who had registered to cast their ballots.

Reacting to the final results, United Democratic Movement (UDM) leader Bantu Holomisa said his party was concerned about the "looming spectre of a near two-third majority".

He said the major win brought with it an arrogance of power.

"One party dominance is not healthy for democracy in the long run.

"It is incumbent upon us in the opposition and civil society at large to seriously explore the ways in which we can bring about such a balanced party political system to South Africa," said Holomisa.

The UDM received 149 680 votes, 0,85% of the total.