By: Bright Ntuli
President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on South Africans to take pride in the country’s democratic gains, noting that for the past three decades South Africa has consistently held free and fair elections.
Ramaphosa delivered the keynote address on Wednesday evening at an event in Boksburg, Gauteng, marking the 70th anniversary of the adoption of the Freedom Charter, a historic document that laid the foundation for South Africa’s constitutional democracy.
As the country prepares for the 2026 local government elections, the President said the electoral process continues to reflect the will of the people, adding that South Africa’s democracy is “deeply entrenched in society.”
Ramaphosa also highlighted the significance of the Freedom Charter in shaping modern governance principles, including equality, human rights, and accountability. He emphasised that the upcoming elections will once again give citizens the opportunity to hold leaders accountable and strengthen democratic institutions.
The President further urged political parties and communities to work together to ensure peaceful campaigning and broad voter participation, saying that a thriving democracy depends on an active and engaged electorate.
