Political upheaval marks 2024 as incumbents face major losses worldwide

In 2024, many countries experienced significant political changes as incumbents faced major losses. The UK saw the Labour Party end 14 years of Conservative rule, while Donald Trump returned to the U.S. presidency, defeating Vice President Kamala Harris. India held pivotal elections, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's party winning but losing seats, leading to a coalition government. Sri Lanka elected Anura Kumara Dissanayake as president, marking a shift after mass protests ousted the previous leader. Other countries also saw shifts. In France, President Macron's coalition lost its majority, leading to a new prime minister. South Africa's ruling party failed to secure a majority for the first time since apartheid, while Japan's long-governing party lost its parliamentary majority.