By Kaya Mntsantsa
Kimberley
President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered a keynote address on Human Rights Day, commemorating 30 years since the adoption of South Africa’s democratic Constitution. The President reflected on the progress made in restoring dignity to millions of South Africans, while acknowledging the work still needed to address poverty, inequality, and unemployment.
In his speech, President Ramaphosa highlighted the significance of the Constitution, which was signed into law in Sharpeville, a site of brutal apartheid-era violence. “The Constitution is our greatest source of national pride not only because of what it contains, but because of how it was written,” he said. The President emphasized that the Constitution is more than just a supreme law, but a guiding document that sets the coordinates for a journey towards a just, inclusive, and united future for all South Africans.
The President noted the progress made in restoring dignity, including the provision of basic services, social grants, and education to millions of citizens. “Since the adoption of the Constitution, we have worked together to restore the dignity of all those who were denied this fundamental right,” he said. Over 9 million learners in schools across the country are being fed through the National School Nutrition Programme, and more than 29 million indigent, unemployed, and vulnerable South Africans are receiving old age, disability, and child support grants.
President Ramaphosa also acknowledged the role of affirmative action and employment equity in promoting diversity and inclusion. “There can be no peace, no progress without justice,” he said. “We must continue to pursue policies of restitution and redress until our workplaces, our economy, and the ownership of this country’s land truly reflect the diversity of the people of this country.”
However, the President emphasized that more work is needed to address the lingering effects of apartheid and corruption, which have slowed progress. “Economic inequality challenges the promise of restoring the dignity of all,” he said. “Far too many of our citizens live in conditions of poverty. Far too many are unemployed and lack access to economic opportunities.”
To address these challenges, President Ramaphosa called for a collective effort to drive inclusive growth, job creation, and poverty reduction, and to build a capable, ethical, and developmental state. “We must work together to combat social ills like gender-based violence, criminality, and substance abuse,” he said. “We need civil servants who are loyal to the Constitution and treat people with dignity.”
The President urged all South Africans to be champions of the Constitution, participating in public hearings, and holding leaders accountable. He announced a National Dialogue, which will involve dialogues across the country, to shape the future of South Africa and strive for dignity for all.
“Our Constitution is our moral compass,” President Ramaphosa said. “Let us continue along our journey, one and all, towards a South Africa of true equality where the dignity of all is not an aspiration, but a reality.”
The President’s speech was delivered against the backdrop of the 30th anniversary of the signing of the Constitution, which took place on December 10, 1996. The event was attended by various dignitaries, including Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Justices of the Constitutional Court, and other senior government officials.
As South Africa celebrates Human Rights Day, the President’s message serves as a reminder of the country’s progress towards a more just and equitable society, and the work still needed to address the challenges facing the nation.
