In what has become President Thabo Mbeki's signature style in the general election, he took to the floor at the Independent Electoral Commission in Pretoria, chatting, hugging and shaking hands all round.

Mbeki told reporters the African National Congress's strategy of walking about to meet the people had paid off. Following this successful approach, the president, followed by a large media contingent and a bundle of body guards, visited each political party's station at the IEC.

Ignoring the media attention, he sat at the ANC desk to find out how the computer results system worked. Like most South Africans, Mbeki wanted to know: "When will the results be finalised?"

Mbeki warmly embraced Patricia de Lille of the Independent Democrats whose party has impressed in its first showing at the polls. De Lille told Sapa the president said: "Well done. Now stop working so hard so that you can come and cause some trouble in Parliament."

The president greeted Bantu Holomisa of the United Democratic Movement. The two joked that despite media reports that the two would not shake hands, that was "outdated" news.

"We are shaking hands once again," Holomisa said, adding that Tony Leon (leader of the Democratic Alliance) will be "whipped like Marthinus van Schalkwyk in 2009."

He told Mbeki: "By 2009 the UDM will be the official opposition. Maybe the ANC will still be there."

Mbeki hugged Rudi du Plooy of the Christian Democratic Party and Joe Seremane, chairman of the Democratic Alliance. The DA's Douglas Gibson made do with a handshake.

Cassie Aucamp of the National Action party warmly welcomed the president, introducing his son and daughter. The four smiled broadly, even though it is unlikely Aucamp will retain a seat in Parliament. Provisional results show his party as having 15 184 votes, which translates into 0,1% of the poll.

It is estimated parties will need between 38 000 to 45 000 votes for one seat in Parliament - Sapa.