Mahikeng - The ANC in the North West set the pace on Thursday morning with more than 49 seats won across municipalities followed by the DA with five seats.
In total, the ANC has claimed 62% of the votes counted thus far, the DA 15% and the EFF 14%.
Although the EFF is the official opposition in the province, it is yet to win any seats. However results are trickling in and this picture will likely change.
ANC provincial chair Supra Mahumapelo told journalists on Thursday that his party has always been confident they would win the province and was not surprised by the early lead.
Mahumapelo said the party was already planning a victory celebration this weekend.
DA North West leader Joe McGluwa said his party was still optimistic that it would show growth in this election.
It was not over until "the fat lady sings", he said.
"This election is historical for us and a preparation for the 2019 national and provincial elections.
"We are going to be on our toes now because the verdict on the province is still uncertain.
“There is a lot of nervousness among our members," he said.
The counting of votes in the various regions of the North West is still far from over.
IEC provincial electoral officer Tumelontle Thiba said it was difficult to say when the process would be finalised and results announced.
"It could take forever," she said. "Right now we are still counting and capturing the results and letting the auditors do their part. I cannot say when this will be completed unfortunately."
Elections Bureau