2024: The year incumbent governments lost power
2024 has undergone an immense political change, incumbent governments and parties around the world being defeated in elections. These changes in political leadership have been ongoing among a multitude of nations globally.
- United Kingdom: The ruling Conservative Party, in power for over a decade, suffered a significant defeat. Labour, led by Keir Starmer, won with promises of change and policies focusing on public services and economic reforms.
- South Africa: The African National Congress (ANC), dominant since the end of apartheid, lost its parliamentary majority for the first time. A coalition of opposition parties has taken charge, reflecting voter frustration with corruption and poor governance.
- Japan: The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), which has governed for much of the post-war period, lost its majority in elections. This result stems from public dissatisfaction with economic stagnation and demographic challenges.
- France: President Emmanuel Macron’s party faced a backlash after calling for snap parliamentary elections. A coalition of left-wing and centrist parties gained ground, capitalising on discontent over controversial reforms.
- India: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata party was re-elected for a third term, but lost his parliamentary majority for the first time in a decade.
- Senegal: President Macky Sall’s alliance suffered a major defeat, with opposition leader Bassirou Diomaye Faye winning the presidential election. This marked a significant generational and ideological shift, reflecting growing youth dissatisfaction with established political structures.
- Bangladesh: The Awami League’s grip on power weakened significantly, with opposition parties gaining substantial ground amid concerns about democratic processes and economic management.
There were some notable exceptions, such as Mexico and Ireland.