Politics can be inexplicable and apparently irrational — how did Jacob Zuma manage to lead the oldest liberation movement on the continent for two terms? — but in the final analysis it’s a numbers game. And polls conducted in the run-up to elections by reputable organisations are grounded in maths and usually provide a reliable gauge of voter sentiment.

Research companies will give a margin of error for their polls, and they rarely predict an election outcome with 100% accuracy. But the insights they provide into the mood of the electorate are crucial. ..

Subscribe now to unlock this article.

Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).

There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.

Cancel anytime.

Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.