7 out 10 South Africans unhappy with where the country is headed - survey

JOHANNESBURG - A recent study has found that a majority of South Africans believe that the country is headed in the wrong direction.

This is one of the key findings in a survey by the Brenthurst Foundation, which interviewed registered voters across the country.

The study suggests that unemployment, illegal immigration and corruption have led to a reduction in the public's confidence in government.

The Brenthurst Foundation interviewed registered voters across the country and found that 7 out 10 South Africans are unhappy with where the country is headed.

Fifty-two percent of the sample raised frustrations about their daily struggles, citing their poor living conditions as a reason for a lack of confidence in the state.

However, while South Africans are unhappy with the state of the country, the study suggests that most are content with the Government of National Unity (GNU)'s performance.

Research director at the Brenthurst Foundation, Ray Hartley, said that voters clearly want a working government.

"There is a sense that this government is doing more than the previous government. Whether or not that translates into if this government is succeeding or turning around the major challenges, I think remains to be seen."

The study also found that the Democratic Alliance (DA) and African National Congress (ANC) were the most effective parties at governing.