Bloemfontein: The government has addressed reports concerning an incident during the National Freedom Day celebrations, which suggested a disruption when an individual briefly made his way onto the stage towards President Cyril Ramaphosa and Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie.
According to South African Government News Agency, the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) clarified that these reports were misleading and overstated the nature of the incident. The formal programme of the celebrations had already concluded and transitioned into a cultural performance when the incident occurred.
In a statement, the GCIS explained that the President, along with other dignitaries, was on stage participating in the performance. The public, including many children, were gathered in an orderly manner outside the main stage area, waiting to greet the President.
During this period, an excited individual made his way onto the stage intending to greet the President and the Minister. Security personnel acted promptly, restraining the individual as per standard protocol, according to Acting Government Spokesperson Nomonde Mnukwa.
It was confirmed that the individual posed no security threat and had no intention of causing harm. His actions were motivated by enthusiasm and a desire to interact with the President and the Minister.
The government confirmed that the official programme was not disrupted. Following the brief incident, the President continued to engage with the public, including the individual, who expressed joy at meeting him.
South Africa marked National Freedom Day in the Free State.