Cape town: In a robust Budget Vote debate reply, President Cyril Ramaphosa highlighted the achievements and challenges of South Africa’s young democracy, emphasizing the importance of the Government of National Unity (GNU) and the country’s world-renowned Constitution. The President’s response to the debate underscored the nation’s democratic progress, with the President pointing out that despite being only 31 years old, the democracy has made substantial improvements in citizens’ lives.
According to South African Government News Agency, President Ramaphosa emphasized the unique nature of South Africa’s Constitution, which upholds citizens’ rights to challenge the government and even win in court. He remarked, “We are counted as amongst the few [countries] who have the type of Constitution that we have, that upholds our people’s rights, where our people can even challenge government and take government to court and hope to win. And at times, they win.”
In his reply to the Presidency Budget Vote in Parliament, President Ramaphosa also discussed the significance of the GNU, composed of 10 political parties, which has “continued to hold, even as it has had to weather many a storm.” He noted, “And yet, despite those differences, the GNU partners have chosen to work together for the common good of all South Africans. It is a Government of National Unity.”
The President also addressed the country’s advancements in improving citizens’ lives and tackling historical racial disparities. He highlighted that the democracy, though only 31 years old, has made great progress, citing millions of homes electrified, clean water provided to communities, and public housing for vulnerable populations.
Moreover, President Ramaphosa addressed historical economic inequalities, referring to the Carnegie Report’s impact on white economic advancement. He noted the disparity in resources devoted to white educational and healthcare institutions, stating, “More was spent on social grants, housing, agricultural support and social services for whites.”
He stressed the importance of accountability and collaborative governance, positioning the Presidency as a strategic coordinator rather than an implementing department. The President also highlighted that 73% of employment comes from the private sector, emphasizing the need for the government to create an enabling environment for economic growth.
The debate underscored South Africa’s commitment to open dialogue and the need for collective action to build a capable, ethical State and improve citizens’ quality of life.