With around 17 percent of votes counted after the general elections in South Africa, the African National Congress (ANC) was living up to its title of ruling party.

By 06h30, the ANC had just over a million votes, followed by the Democratic Alliance (DA) with 505 550 and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) at 159 996.

While votes in many big districts are outstanding the voting trends seem to follow the current status quo in South African politics as these parties are currently the top three parties represented in the National Assembly in terms of seats.

The big surprise was the Freedom Front Plus which at this early stage had 69 623 votes - a strong showing and if the trend continues the party could see more MPs representing it in Parliament.

Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) support among the electorate stood at 30 616 while the African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) had 22 315 votes cast in their favour.

New Kid on the block, GOOD, formed by former DA mayor Patrica De Lille was seventh on the board with 16 655 votes.