The counting of the votes has started in what is seen as South Africa's most closely fought elections since the African National Congress came to power 30 years ago.
Wednesday's election saw long lines of voters outside polling stations late into the night across the country.
The key issues for voters were widespread corruption in government, high levels of unemployment and rampant crime.
A record 70 parties and 11 independents were running, with South Africans voting for a new parliament and nine provincial legislatures.
More than 27 million people were registered to cast their ballots, including a high percentage of young voters.
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