Ramaphosa Defends ANC’s Record on Freedom Charter, Highlights 30 Years of Progress

Ramaphosa Pushes Back on Criticism of ANC Record

At the heart of the ANC’s 5th National General Council (NGC) this week, President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered a robust defence of the party’s record in implementing the Freedom Charter, pushing back against voices claiming the party has strayed from its founding ideals. Speaking at the 70th anniversary commemoration of the landmark document, Ramaphosa insisted that the party’s achievements over the past three decades are tangible proof of its commitment.

“The progress we have made is undeniable,” Ramaphosa said, adding that claims suggesting otherwise are misleading. “Those who say the Freedom Charter has not been implemented are lying.”

From Soweto to Today: The Freedom Charter’s Enduring Legacy

The Freedom Charter, drawn up on June 26, 1955, in Soweto, has long symbolised South Africa’s aspirations for equality, freedom, and a better life for all. Ramaphosa framed the anniversary as more than a historical milestone; for him, it is the foundation for a non-racial, democratic South Africa.

He emphasised that the Charter’s vision continues to guide policy, particularly in housing, healthcare, and the economy. “We build houses and give them as assets. These are people who had no assets, in many cases dispossessed of their property,” he said, drawing comparisons with other African countries, many of which lack free housing programmes.

Housing, Healthcare, and Democracy: Tangible Wins

Highlighting the ANC’s social achievements, Ramaphosa pointed out:

• Over 3 million houses built since 1994 through the RDP programme

• Access to free healthcare for South Africans, a unique model on the continent

• Expansion of basic services such as electricity, water, and sanitation, with over 80% of households now living in formal housing

“These are milestones that show South Africans’ quality of life has improved since the advent of democracy,” Ramaphosa said.

On the democratic front, he reaffirmed that South Africa has consistently held free and fair elections over the past 30 years, reflecting the will of the people, with international observers confirming the integrity of the process.

Facing Challenges, Committed to Progress

While acknowledging ongoing challenges in lifting all citizens out of poverty, Ramaphosa stressed the ANC’s continued dedication to uplifting millions living below the poverty line. He framed the Freedom Charter as a living guide, a roadmap for policies aimed at economic transformation, including the Broad-Based Economic Empowerment Equity Act, which he cited as an example of the ANC’s legislative efforts to reshape the economy.

Public Reaction and Context

Social media responses to Ramaphosa’s speech were mixed. Supporters celebrated the party’s housing and healthcare programmes:

“We might have issues, but free housing is something to be proud of,” one user tweeted.

Critics, however, argued that rhetoric needs to be matched by more rapid service delivery and economic opportunities for ordinary South Africans.

Historically, the ANC has faced scrutiny for perceived slow progress on the Charter’s promises, particularly in areas like wealth redistribution and unemployment, making this defence at the NGC both a political and symbolic statement ahead of the party’s ongoing internal discussions.

The Charter as a Roadmap

Ramaphosa concluded by linking the Freedom Charter’s ideals to the ANC’s vision for the future, asserting that policy, not rhetoric, will continue to define the party’s legacy. He urged members to recognise the achievements while remaining committed to tackling inequality and poverty.

For South Africans watching, the speech was a reminder that the Freedom Charter remains central to national debate, a document whose relevance extends far beyond anniversaries and NGC halls, shaping the daily realities of millions still striving for a better life.

{Source: IOL}

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