Kimberley: President Cyril Ramaphosa has issued a rallying call to all South Africans to embody the spirit of the Constitution through 'action, thought, word and deed'. The President delivered the keynote address at the national celebrations of Human Rights Day held in Kimberley.
According to South African Government News Agency, this year marks 30 years since the Constitution was adopted by South Africa. President Ramaphosa emphasized the Constitution as a moral compass that remains steadfast, regardless of political influences. "In 1996, when the Constitution became law, we made a break with a divided past. Today, we work for a shared future," he stated, urging citizens to fulfill the Constitution's promise.
The significance of the Constitution's signing at Sharpeville, the site of the 1960 massacre, was highlighted by the President. He remarked on the importance of honoring those who sacrificed their lives in the struggle for human rights and how Sharpeville symbolizes a new democratic dawn for South Africa.
The adoption of the Constitution marked the transition from apartheid to democracy. "Signing the Constitution into law was the most significant act of our democratic era," Ramaphosa noted, emphasizing the collaborative efforts involved in its creation, which included inputs from 1.7 million individuals and civil society organizations.
President Ramaphosa acknowledged the progress made since the adoption of the Constitution, citing government initiatives that have restored dignity to many South Africans. These include educational programs, social assistance, and access to basic services. However, he also emphasized the need for continued efforts in restitution and redress to build a just society.
In his closing remarks, the President called for collaboration across society to bridge the gap between constitutional promises and lived realities. He stressed the importance of partnerships to combat social issues and urged every South African to be a champion of the Constitution, ensuring equality and dignity for all.