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In the evolving tapestry of the global technology landscape, software companies in the southern hemisphere, particularly within South Africa, are forging a distinctive path. These organisations are not only adapting to technological advancements but are also shaping them, demonstrating resilience and innovation in a competitive domain traditionally dominated by North American and European giants. The …
Innovative open-source platform MyCandidate South Africa ( #MyCandidateSA), spearheaded by Open Cities Lab (OCL), is reshaping voter engagement in South Africa’s upcoming 2024 elections. By leveraging technology to provide accessible and transparent information, #MyCandidateSA empowers voters with the knowledge they need to make informed choices at the polls. During the 2021 Local Government Elections, #MyCandidateSA …
We sent questions to the ANC, DA, EFF, IFP, FF Plus, ActionSA, PA, MK Party and RISE Mzansi
Applications for special votes close Friday
Applications for special votes will close tomorrow, 3 May 2024, says the Electoral Commission (IEC).
Persons who intend to vote by special vote must first apply or cause an application to be submitted on their behalf as follows:
The commission said in a statement on Thursday that it was important for the public to note that there are two categories of special votes affected by the deadline tomorrow.
The first relates to home visits for those registered voters who are infirm or have impaired mobility. These voters may apply to be visited at home or a place of confinement.
The second category of special votes is available to any registered voter who wishes to vote early at their voting station.
The commission reiterated that there is no automatic age-based qualification for a special vote.
Special votes are available to all voters, but only upon application by the deadline date of 3 May.
Furthermore, the commission reported that over a million special votes applications have already been approved for these elections.
In terms of the election timetable, both categories of special votes will be conducted on 27 and 28 May, from 9am to 5pm.
Election Day will be held on 29 may 2024.
In the last hours before the applications deadline, the commission has called on registered voters who wish to vote by special vote to ensure that they submit applications as no late applications will be accommodated. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 05/02/2024 - 10:26
Application for special votes closes this Friday
Applications for special votes will close tomorrow, 3 May 2024, says the Electoral Commission (IEC).
Persons who intend to vote by special vote must first apply or cause an application to be submitted on their behalf as follows:
The commission said in a statement on Thursday that it was important for the public to note that there are two categories of special votes affected by the deadline tomorrow.
The first relates to home visits for those registered voters who are infirm or have impaired mobility. These voters may apply to be visited at home or a place of confinement.
The second category of special votes is available to any registered voter who wishes to vote early at their voting station.
The commission reiterated that there is no automatic age-based qualification for a special vote.
Special votes are available to all voters, but only upon application by the deadline date of 3 May.
Furthermore, the commission reported that over a million special votes applications have already been approved for these elections.
In terms of the election timetable, both categories of special votes will be conducted on 27 and 28 May, from 9am to 5pm.
Election Day will be held on 29 may 2024.
In the last hours before the applications deadline, the commission has called on registered voters who wish to vote by special vote to ensure that they submit applications as no late applications will be accommodated. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 05/02/2024 - 10:26
Government pays tribute to South Africa's workers
As South Africa joins the rest of the world in celebrating International Workers’ Day, government has paid tribute to all workers, especially frontline workers who continue to provide essential services on this public holiday.
Celebrated annually on 1 May, International Workers’ Day or May Day, pays tribute to the historical struggle of workers and their trade unions for solidarity and fair employment standards.
This year’s International Workers’ Day is commemorated under the theme: “30 Years of Freedom”.
This year also marks the 133-year anniversary of May Day, a testament to the enduring legacy of the labour movement.
In South Africa, the journey began with the formation of the Congress of South African Trade Union (COSATU) in December 1985. The union’s demand for May Day to be recognised as a public holiday and renamed Workers’ Day was heeded by approximately 1.5 million workers.
The workers were joined by thousands of learners, students, taxi drivers, hawkers, shopkeepers, domestic workers, and self–employed and unemployed people.
Despite being banned in advance by the apartheid government, rallies were held across the country with the majority held in the Pretoria-Witwatersrand-Vereeniging area, now known as Gauteng.
Workers’ Day has been officially acknowledged and commemorated in South Africa since the inaugural democratic government in 1994.
The Department of Employment and Labour said the day serves dual purposes – a celebration of workers’ rights and a poignant reminder of the pivotal role that trade unions, the Communist Party and other labour organisations played in the struggle against apartheid.
“Workers’ Day in South Africa carries its unique cultural significance. The public holiday has come to symbolise not only the sacrifices made in an arduous journey towards fair employment standards but also the fierce battle against apartheid, where trade and labour played a crucial role,” the department said in a statement on Wednesday.
Given that South Africa’s working classes were the most oppressed under apartheid, the department said the fight for improved working conditions and the battle to dismantle systematic segregation became inextricably linked.
“Prior to the 1994 elections, labour and trade groups frequently used Workers’ Day as a rallying symbol against segregation and oppression of the apartheid regime, organising demonstrations and fostering widespread resistance. This day serves as a testament to their resilience and determination,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 05/01/2024 - 10:29
Mashatile calls on leaders from all sectors to build SA's economy
Leaders from all sectors of society must join hands to build a resilient economy and fight corruption, says the Deputy President, Paul Mashatile.
“We must collaborate, with each playing a distinctive part, to generate employment and boost trade and investment between our nations, the continent and the world,” he told delegates during a dialogue on the role of leadership in fostering economic growth, hosted by the African United Business Confederation (AUBC).
The roundtable dialogue held on Tuesday focused on the role of leadership in economic growth.
The Deputy President said he believed that effective leadership significantly affects the economic landscape of nations and societies.
“We are convinced that to build our economy, leaders from all sectors, including business, politics, government, and civil society, must work together,” he said.
“Our roles are all important, and if one lags behind, it will affect the growth of our economy. It is our duty as political leaders in government to formulate policies that promote an environment conducive to economic growth.”
The country’s second-in-command said effective economic policies can stimulate innovation, promote entrepreneurship and drive innovation.
“As you may have observed, since the advent of democracy, we have created political stability by promoting free and fair elections, which will continue to be the case in the upcoming election on 29 May 2024.”
The Deputy President said a stable political environment is critical for investor confidence and economic growth.
He told the private sector leaders that they have a responsibility to foster entrepreneurship and innovation, both of which are vital to economic expansion and job creation.
In addition, he said, the private sector is key to enhancing the competitiveness of the South African economy.
“Together, as leaders, we possess the foresight to identify opportunities, mitigate risks, and make strategic decisions that drive sustainable economic development.”
He acknowledged that despite attaining political freedom and substantial advancements since 1994, South Africa is yet to realise economic freedom and an economy that adequately provides for the majority of its population.
“As present-day leaders across various sectors of our society, we must set aside our differences and concentrate on fully rousing the potential of South Africa’s economy.
“We must proactively address socio-economic challenges such as high unemployment, poverty, inequality and corruption.”
Corruption
He added that in order to reach the goal of ending poverty and boosting economic growth set out in the National Development Plan, “we must all work together to fight corruption and support accountability, openness, and good government”.
The fight against corruption should be multifaceted, involving both the public and private sectors.
“We have to strengthen anti-corruption partnerships, intensify efforts, and promote a zero-tolerance approach to corruption led by capable leaders, who are resilient, highly adaptable and willing to implement bold reforms to surmount our challenges and transform the economy.”
Inclusion
In addition, he called on leaders across sectors to be intentional in their inclusion of women, youth and other marginalised groups in economic reform efforts.
He also touched on the Red Tape Reduction Team introduced by President Cyril Ramaphosa to improve the ease of doing business in the country and further stimulate business development.
“The team focuses on reducing red tape in priority areas such as mining rights, tourism operator licenses, travel visas, work permits, and the informal sector, aiming to create a competitive and vibrant economy.”
In addition, he said government has also reduced regulatory hurdles for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMMEs) and cooperatives, reduced VAT refund processing time from 15 weeks to four to five weeks and reduced the corporate income tax audit process from 32 weeks to 17 weeks.
“We have a collective role to play in paving the way for future generations of leaders to contribute to the transformation of our economy. Through strategic leadership, we unlock the countries’ potential, drive innovation, and create a better future.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 04/30/2024 - 12:32
Apply to cast your special vote before applications close on Friday
The deadline is looming for those who wish to apply for a special vote in this year’s National and Provincial Elections (NPE).
According to the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC), all applications for special votes for home and voting station visits opened on 15 April 2024 and will close on Friday, 3 May 2024.
Home visits are intended for those voters who cannot travel to voting stations, while special votes at voting stations are for citizens unable to be at the voting station on Election Day.
Special voting will be conducted on the two days preceding Election Day - on 27 and 28 May 2024, from 9 am to 5 pm.
Voters can apply as follows:
• Using the IEC’s secured online application at www.elections.org.za.
• By SMSing your identity number to 32249 (R1.00 per SMS) for voting station visit only.
• By visiting your local IEC office and submitting an Appendix 1B form for a voting station special vote.
• By visiting your local IEC office and submitting an Appendix 1A form for a home visit special vote. Forms can also be hand-delivered, and someone else can deliver a form on behalf of a voter.
Meanwhile, the IEC has distanced itself from a widely circulated message claiming that it has granted permission for everyone over the age of 60 to cast a special vote on 27 and 28 at the polling station where they are registered.
“This is not a message from the Commission. The Electoral Commission re-emphasises the general principle of election administration that voters must vote where they are registered.”
However, in the event a voter intends to be in a different voting district on Voting Day, such a voter must notify the Commission of their intended absence from their voting district and must identify the voting station where they wish to cast the vote.
Known as Section 24A notices, the IEC explained that these are live at www.elections.org.za and will close on 17 May 2024.
South Africa will hold its elections on 29 May 2024. President Cyril Ramaphosa has also declared Election Day as an additional public holiday in terms of Section 2A of the Public Holidays Act 36 of 1994. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 04/30/2024 - 10:08
Campaigners want government car parks developed for affordable inner city housing
SA heads to the polls in a month's time
With one month to go, the Electoral Commission (IEC) is in the final stretch of preparations for the seventh democratic elections, which are believed to be the most contested in the history of the country.
South Africans will go to the polls on 29 May 2024 to the elect the leadership for the seventh administration out of the 70 political parties and 11 independent candidates that were published by the IEC as final contestants in these elections.
In total, there are over 14 903 candidates vying for 887 seats in the National and Provincial Legislatures.
“The finalisation of the list of candidates contesting seats in the 2024 National and Provincial Elections (NPE2024) means that the Commission can now go ahead with the printing of ballot papers for the elections. The 27.79 million registered voters will receive three ballot papers to elect candidates to represent them in the National Assembly and Provincial Legislatures.
“In consort with the provisions of the election timetable, the Electoral Commission has also published the list of addresses of the 23 292 voting stations that will be used in these elections. The route for mobile voting stations has also been published,” the IEC said recently.
The highest number of voting stations will be in Kwazulu-Natal (4 974), then the Eastern Cape (4 868) and Limpopo (3 216). All voting stations are now contracted with lease agreements concluded with landlords or owners.
A list of the voting stations can be found on the Electoral Commission’s website.
Special votes
For those who would like to apply for special votes, for the purposes of home visits and voting station visits, there is still time to do so as the deadline for applications is on 3 May 2024.
“Home visits are intended for those voters who are unable to travel to voting stations whilst special votes at voting stations are for everyone who is unable to be at the voting station on Election Day. Special voting will be conducted on the two days preceding Election Day, on 27 and 28 May 2024,” the IEC said.
Special votes may be accessed using one of the following modalities:
Special votes will also be administered at South Africa’s diplomatic missions abroad to service 58 000 registered voters. These voters will be provided for at the diplomatic missions of the Republic.
Security plan
Government has, meanwhile, assured citizens that the elections will be conducted in a safe and secure environment.
“As the government, we want to issue a stern warning to anyone with intentions to disrupt the elections that law enforcement officers will deal with them decisively and will put them behind bars. We want to assure the public of the readiness of the JCPS [Justice, Crime Prevention and Security] Cluster to execute its mandate of protecting the public, our country’s strategic installations and infrastructure during the election period. We will do everything in our power to protect all those who want to exercise their Constitutional right to vote,” Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Thandi Modise said.
Government also urged members of the public to report any crime related to elections to their nearest police station or IEC offices.
“A protocol has been established between the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, South African Police Service (SAPS) Detectives and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to prioritise all election-related crimes.
“Prosecutors stand ready to prosecute offences such as electoral fraud and corruption, removing or defacing political party and campaign posters, interfering with the duties of the electoral officials as well as forcing anyone to vote,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 04/29/2024 - 11:36
Security plan in place for upcoming elections
With just 30 days left until South Africans head to the polls, government has assured citizens that the seventh National and Provincial Elections will be conducted in a safe and secure environment.
“As the government, we want to issue a stern warning to anyone with intentions to disrupt the elections that the law enforcement officers will deal with them decisively and will put them behind bars,” Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Thandi Modise said on Sunday in Pretoria.
Addressing a media briefing by the Justice, Crime Prevention, and Security (JCPS) Cluster, the Minister emphasised that no one has a right to intimidate and prevent others from exercising their Constitutional right to vote for a party of his or her choice.
“We want to assure the public of the readiness of the JCPS Cluster to execute its mandate of protecting the public, our country’s strategic installations and infrastructure during the election period. We will do everything in our power to protect all those who want to exercise their Constitutional right to vote,” the Minister said.
The 2024 General Elections are believed to be the most contested in the history of this country. Overall, 70 political parties are contesting the elections, 11 independent candidates, and the national contestants are 52.
In total, there are over 14, 903 candidates vying for 887 seats in the National and Provincial Legislatures.
“Our approach as the JCPS Cluster is to ensure coordinated and intelligence-led planning and operations pre-, during, and postelections where multi-departmental teams work together to ensure that all South Africans exercise their Constitutional rights without fear of intimidation or violence.
“This coordination is managed by National and Provincial JOINTS [ Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure] structures of the JCPS Cluster and the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC). Inter-departmental Priority Committees were established in 2023 at both the National and Provincial levels to safety and security planning.
“Our law enforcement agencies have led in developing the national security plan which has been approved by the Ministers of the JCPS Cluster. NATJOINTS [National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure] has done a thorough threat and crime pattern analysis to inform the development of a security plan and they want to ensure that nothing is left to chance,” the Minister said.
Fit-for purpose
Based on the threat and crime pattern analysis, NATJOINTS has recommended a fit-for-purpose deployment plan that will deal with any potential threats of crime and violence in and around voting stations and national and provincial results centres.
“We have also put measures in place to protect all public facilities that will be used for voting, national key points and other essential infrastructure that might be targeted by criminal elements. In addition, the Criminal Matters Amendment Act of 2015 states that any person who tampers with or damages essential infrastructure is guilty of a criminal offence and he/she can be sentenced to a maximum of 30 years if found guilty
“The South African Police Service (SAPS) Ministry and SAPS management have conducted several oversite roadshows in all provinces where they met with the station commanders of all police stations and district commissioners to assess the SAPS state of readiness and preparedness to ensure safety and security.
“The management of SAPS and Ministry are satisfied with the level of readiness of all the provinces and districts to provide policing services pre-, during and post-the elections,” Modise said.
The elections will be policed within the relevant prescripts and laws and police officers will enforce the law accordingly.
“We want to reiterate that the security plan will be constantly reviewed as the situation changes and we will adapt as required. As the JCPS Cluster leadership, we want to send a clear message to the public that no incitement to violence, lawlessness, destruction of infrastructure, or barricading of roads will be tolerated. Anyone who participates in any form of criminal activity will be dealt with.
“We therefore reiterate to all South Africans that political rights for citizens are guaranteed and should not be violated. The JCPS will ensure that all the rights enshrined in the Constitution are not violated,” she said.
Among these rights are the rights to freedom, security, and protection from all forms of violence from either public or private sources.
“Although the Constitution allows all citizens to participate in protests, pickets and present petitions, those who participate in these activities must do so peacefully and not violate the rights of those who do not want to participate. Anyone who is found to have contravened these critical provisions of the Constitution during this period will be met with the full authority of the state,” the Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 04/28/2024 - 11:18
Warning against putting up election posters on electrical structures
Eskom has cautioned political parties against putting up election posters on electrical structures as part of their campaigns due to the risk of electrocution.
As South Africa is getting ready to host the 2024 General Elections on 29 May 2024, political parties are putting up election posters as part of their campaigns.
“In the past, there have unfortunately been incidents where persons have been electrocuted or shocked when putting up these posters. As such, Eskom would like to caution all political parties against the dangerous practice of placing campaign posters on electrical structures.
“This includes electricity poles, electricity towers, meter boxes and mini substations. Electricity is invisible to the naked eye and the risk is that when someone gets close to or touches them it may result in an inadvertent flash-over or electrical contact. This can cause serious injuries to the person or even be fatal,” Eskom said in a statement on Saturday.
Only authorised personnel are allowed to climb or work on these electrical structures.
According to Section 19 (5) of the Electrical Machinery Regulations, "No person shall encroach in person or with objects on the minimum safety clearances required in terms of sub-regulation (1) or require or permit any other person to do so except by permission of the supplier or user operating the power line.”
“Attaching posters to an electrical structure is not only a contravention of the Occupational Health and Safety Act (No.85 of 1993), but also puts the lives of your valuable employees, members of the public and volunteers at risk. Eskom cares about your safety and we request you to refrain from attaching posters to electrical structures to prevent injury or loss of lives,” the power utility said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 04/28/2024 - 12:28
Public urged to report crimes related to elections
Government has urged members of the public to report any crime related to elections to their nearest police station or Electoral Commission (IEC) offices.
“A protocol has been established between the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, South African Police Service (SAPS) Detectives and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to prioritise all election-related crimes,” Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Thandi Modise said on Sunday in Pretoria.
Addressing a media briefing by the Justice, Crime Prevention, and Security (JCPS) Cluster, the Minister said prosecutors stand ready to prosecute offences such as electoral fraud and corruption, removing or defacing political party and campaign posters, interfering with the duties of the electoral officials as well as forcing anyone to vote.
“Individuals who use social media and electronic platforms to send threatening messages, incite violence, or cause harm to others will be charged. When an individual creates a video or share a post to the public and where the post contains words, speech or conduct that may encourage others to commit public violence, the aforementioned post will make one guilty of the offence of inciting public violence and police will not hesitate to track the person down and hold you accountable,” Modise said.
The Minister appealed to political and community leaders to exercise caution when speaking on public platforms.
“Do not make inflammatory or threatening statements as you will be breaking the law and may also encourage others to carry out criminal activities.
“We urge the public to exercise caution before sharing the information with others. Ensure that you double-check the accuracy of the information and be aware of the unintended consequences of your actions. Members of the public should report any inflammatory statements to law enforcement agencies,” the Minister said at the briefing held in Pretoria.
She warned the public against sharing false, unverified information, rumours, or threats online or in person as that can have serious consequences.
It can incite violence, confuse voters, and undermine the democratic process.
Meanwhile, the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) has activated provincial disaster management teams to identify risks and put mitigation measures in place for any disasters that may occur pre, during and post the elections.
“The NDMC is working closely with the South African Weather Service to monitor the situation, early warning messages will be issued when necessary. On the day of the elections, these teams will be deployed for 24 hours to monitor the situation,” the Minister said.
Collection of Identity Documents
To assist voters with the process of application for new Identity Documents and Temporary Identity Certificates and the collection of these documents, the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has opened its offices from 8 am to 1 pm on Saturdays from 06 April to 25 May 2024.
“In addition, Home Affairs will open its offices on voting day. Mobile offices are also scheduled to be opened in remote areas to assist with the application and collection processes. The department will engage with councillors and other community leaders to decide on the dates, times and venues of the operation of mobile offices.
“Citizens can also use the Branch Appointment Booking System (BABS), which is available on the DHA website to book appointments to collect their Smart ID Cards and Green barcoded ID books. We encourage clients who have applied for identification documents and have received their SMS notifications, to seize this opportunity by visiting their Home Affairs office to collect these critical documents.”
Modise encourage all eligible voters to go out in their numbers to the different voting stations on 29 May 2024 to cast their votes.
The 2024 General Elections are believed to be the most contested in the history of this country.
“Overall, 70 political parties are contesting these elections, 11 independent candidates, and the national contestants are 52. In total, there are over 14, 903 candidates vying for 887 seats in the National and Provincial Legislatures. Ensuring the safety and security of all voters and officials are of paramount importance,” the Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 04/28/2024 - 11:49
Celebrating freedom in language
With South Africa today commemorating Freedom Day, the Pan South African Language Board (PanSALB) has highlighted the importance of individuals being able to express themselves in languages they understand.
“Today as we celebrate this remarkable milestone, it is essential to recognize that for democracy to flourish, linguistic diversity must be valued as a reliable guide towards the future. Engaging people in a language they understand is critical for genuine participation in democracy,” Chief Executive Officer of the PanSALB, Lance Schultz said on Saturday.
On 27 April 1994, South Africa changed forever as millions of people went to the polls to cast their vote in the first democratic elections.
Schultz’s comments come as President Cyril Ramaphosa led the 2024 Freedom Day national celebrations at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.
“As we mark three decades since the transition from apartheid to democracy, it is worth celebrating the incredible progress we’ve made in recognizing and promoting linguistic diversity,” said the CEO.
He added that South Africa’s expansion from two official languages during the apartheid era to 12 in the new dispensation is a restatement to the great strides that have been made in safeguarding language rights.
“There is no doubt that one of the key aspects of democracy is engaging and communicating with people in languages that they understand and for the past 30 years, the right to use one’s own language has been protected,” said Schultz.
The PanSALB is entrusted with the Constitutional responsibility to ensure that all official languages enjoy priority of esteem and elevate the status of indigenous languages to be recognised as languages of science, technology, and business.
“Furthermore, it is PanSALB’s duty, within the socio-political system of South Africa to promote greater democratic participation by creating an environment where people engage in discussions over linguistic authority, knowledge production and self-determination through their use of language.”
Celebrated Under the theme: “30 Years of Democracy, Partnership, and Growth,” this year's Freedom Month celebrations hold special significance as they also coincide with the 28th anniversary of the enactment of the South African Constitution as the supreme law of the land. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Sat, 04/27/2024 - 14:38
Call to vote in upcoming elections
With the upcoming 2024 National and Provincial elections around the corner, a member of a Danish choir has encouraged citizens to participate in the polls.
South Africans will once again get an opportunity to exercise their democratic right to vote on 29 May 2024 as the country holds its seventh democratic elections.
“If you do not vote, your voice will not be heard. Voting is a way to have your voice heard in a democracy. It is importance to participate in a democracy by voting. It is key,” Papaya choir member Lilian Andresen said on Saturday.
The choir specialises in singing South African songs in Denmark.
Speaking to SAnews during the National Freedom Day celebrations at the Union Buildings in Pretoria, Andresen congratulated South Africa for reaching the historic milestone of 30 years of freedom and democracy.
“Coming to the country as it celebrates 30 years of freedom… is very special. In Denmark we have had democracy for a while and you can tend to take it for granted. Therefore, to come here and see how much it is appreciated is remarkable,” she said.
Hundreds of people gathered at the Union Buildings in Pretoria to celebrate the 30th anniversary of South Africa’s democratic dispensation following the country’s first democratic elections on 27 April 1994.
President Cyril Ramaphosa led the Freedom Day celebrations at the national event under the theme “30 Years of Democracy, Partnership, and Growth.”
While acknowledging the challenges faced by many in the country, Andresen said transformation is a journey.
“You still need to fight for your rights. It is a process. You need to keep going and never lose track of where you want to go,” she said.
With energy, enthusiasm and musical intensity, Papaya sings everything from wedding songs and Zulu war songs to the story of a South Africa that through generations of time has found courage, strength and community through music.
“We have been a choir since 1986. We come here… meet with other choirs, performing groups and dance groups. We share the culture and the music. That is how we learn.
“We then go back to Denmark to share the music and the stories with our Danish audience. The audience is very much moved and touched by it. We love the people, music, culture, the stories and history. It is so rich as the country has had struggles. It is very unique,” she said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sat, 04/27/2024 - 15:55
Minister Lamola reflects of 30 years of freedom
A then 10-year-old Ronald Lamola watched with joy as his parents went to cast their votes in South Africa’s first democratic elections in April 1994.
“I also saw on the television long queues of people ushering in our new freedom when they were voting,” Lamola said on Saturday.
Fast-forward to today and Lamola is South Africa’s Minister of Justice and Correctional Services.
The Minister’s comments come as hundreds of people gathered at the Union Buildings in Pretoria to celebrate the 30th anniversary of South Africa’s democratic dispensation following the country’s first democratic elections on 27 April 1994.
President Cyril Ramaphosa led the National Freedom Day celebrations at the Union Buildings under the theme “30 Years of Democracy, Partnership, and Growth.”
Reflecting on growing up in apartheid South Africa which oppressed the majority of its population at the time, the Minister said as a young boy who grew up on a farm in Komatipoort in the then Eastern Transvaal which today is known as Mpumalanga province, he could not attend the same schools as the white children on the farm.
“We could not play or … have the same dreams of being engineers, astronauts or being lawyers. Today, I stand before you as an LLB (Bachelor of Laws) graduate of the University of Venda who was funded by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). Our country’s biggest breakout of generational poverty.
"I speak with conviction when I say I am a Tintswalo. Every household in this country has a Tintswalo. Freedom made the dreams of many black kids like myself possible to be whoever we wanted to be. [Whether it be] engineers, astronauts, etc which was not possible under apartheid,” the Minister said.
First referred to by President Cyril Ramaphosa in his State of the Nation Address (SONA) in February, Tintswalo is a child born at the dawn of freedom in 1994. Tintswalo grew up in a society that was worlds apart from the South Africa of her parents, grandparents and great-grandparents.
As a child who went to university in a democratic South Africa, the Minister completed his studies with the assistance of the NSFAS which provides financial aid to South African students using funds provided mainly by the government.
“Freedom made it possible for many black kids like me to be whoever we wanted to be… The sky is the limit. Freedom came through the blood and sweat of our struggle heroes. On this day 30 years ago, a new dawn was ushered in through the first democratic elections. Some of the freedoms that we take for granted today were reserved for only white people before 1994," the Minister explained.
Nation building
He said nation building was at the core of the vision and a central piece to the democratisation of South Africa.
"This was reaffirmed by our 1996 Constitution, which is the supreme law of our country that affirms the democratic values of human dignity, equality, and freedom.
“It placed on the state the obligation to respect, protect, promote and fulfil the human rights that are enshrined within our Bill of Rights. We moved from parliamentary sovereignty to a constitutional democracy.
“We now have the freedom to love whoever we want to love. We now have the freedom to go wherever we want to go. We now have the freedom to study whatever we want to study and we now have the freedom of trade.”
He said these freedoms came at a “sacrifice”.
“As a country, we have a responsibility to continue to fight against injustice anywhere in the world.”
While the country had previously been under 300 years of colonial rule, government has laid a solid foundation to build a better life for all.
With South Africa due to hold its seventh democratic elections on 29 May 2024, Lamola has encouraged citizens to exercise their democratic right to vote.
“In our country, our appreciation for freedom has seen growth in our electoral participation and uncensored voices…space for civil society has been maintained and should be commended as progress.”
“[However,] we must ensure [to exercise our right to freedom of speech] with responsibility. We should ensure that the polls that are coming now are credible, non-partisan and aimed at enhancing our democracy.
“Democratic participation should therefore be embraced and enforced by all citizens, we must all go and vote on 29 May to build on our transformatory journey and to build on our freedom.”
This year's Freedom Month celebrations hold special significance as they also coincide with the 28th anniversary of the enactment of the South African Constitution as the supreme law of the land.
"With this freedom, the 1996 constitution envisaged a country that is sovereign, a democratic state that is guided by principles of constitutionalism, the rule of law, democracy and accountability, separation of powers and checks and balances [as well as] cooperative governance," the Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sat, 04/27/2024 - 14:49
Reflecting on 30 years of democratic gains
While South Africa’s democracy is young, the significant strides made by government to improve the the lives of its people since 1994, cannot be denied.
Marking the historic milestone of reaching 30 years of democracy, President Cyril Ramaphosa said South Africans should not let detractors, whether they are abroad or in the country to diminish what government has achieved in 1994 and in the years that have followed.
“Over the course of three centuries, the dignity of the black inhabitants of this land had been deliberately and cruelly denied, first by colonialism and then by apartheid. Millions of black South Africans – African, coloured and Indian – were at the mercy of laws and practices that were enforced to serve the interests of a white minority.
“Their land was taken, their labour was exploited, their prospects were stunted,” the President said on Saturday in Pretoria.
On 27 April 1994, South Africa changed forever as millions of people went to the polls to cast their vote in the first democratic elections.
“Exactly thirty years ago on this day, freedom’s bell rang across our great land. On that day, as we cast our votes for the first time, a great heaviness lifted from our shoulders. Our shackles had been cast off. The weight of centuries of oppression was no longer holding us down,” the President said at the commemoration of Freedom Day held at the Union Buildings.
Today, thirty years later, the people of South Africa gathered as a united people of all races at the same Union Buildings that once symbolised pain and oppression.
“The progress that has been made in a relatively short period of thirty years is something of which we can and should all be proud. We have established a society founded on the rule of law and the premise of equality before the law.
“We have built democratic institutions and have rid our statute books of racist and sexist apartheid laws. As the democratic state, we have worked to restore the dignity of all the South African people, particularly the dispossessed, the marginalised and the vulnerable,” the President said.
To achieve this, government has sought to implement policies and programmes that advance equality and human dignity in areas like economic empowerment, education, health care, social support, and the provision of basic services.
Addressing challenges
“Although there have been setbacks, although we have faced challenges both beyond our borders and at home, our economy has tripled in size since 1994. While unemployment still remains our greatest and most pressing challenge, the number of South Africans in employment increased from eight million in 1994 to over 16.7 million now.
“Through affirmative action, broad-based black economic empowerment, worker share ownership programmes and progressive labour laws, we have brought about transformative change in South Africa’s boardrooms, in workplaces and on the shop floor,” the first citizen said.
In South Africa today, more than half a million workers are part-owners of the companies they work for. This is about one in every 20 workers in the formal private sector.
“The proportion of black people in senior management position in both government and business has increased many times over. Today, our social development system benefits all, providing vital support to the poor and vulnerable, women and children.
“The democratic state has, through its health care programmes, brought down child mortality, improved life expectancy and made important strides towards overcoming the HIV/Aids pandemic. Working together, we have opened the doors of learning and culture.
“We have invested in improving and building new schools, colleges and two new universities. We have vastly increased the number of matriculants, graduates and young skilled people. Although we have much further to go, we have worked to ensure that poverty is no barrier to a decent education,” the President said.
Government has also introduced no-fee schools and the school feeding programme. In addition, it has expanded funding to students from poor and working class families and are now focused on early childhood development.
Equality
“In South Africa today, our Bill of Rights is the foundation for a society rooted in equality regardless of race, gender, sex or sexual orientation. Women in South Africa today enjoy full equality before the law.
“As a society, we have made significant advances in giving effect to the rights of women. We have worked together to ensure that women are empowered in the home, in communities, in society and in the economy. [Women] have fought for equal representation in positions of responsibility in the state, in academia, in business, in sport, in culture,” the President said.
Close to half of the Members of Parliament, judges and magistrates are women. More than 60 % of public servants are women.
“In South Africa today, girls learn alongside boys in our primary and secondary schools and receive equal education. South Africa is a beacon of hope for the protections it affords to the LGBTQI+ [lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning and intersex] community. Although we have much further to go, we have worked to overcome prejudice throughout society.
“We have sought to affirm the rights and improve the circumstances of persons with disabilities. We are still working to remove the barriers that prevent persons with disabilities from realising their full potential and living lives of comfort, security and material well-being,” he said.
Progress
Since the advent of democracy, government has pursued land reform, distributing millions of hectares of land to those who had been forcibly dispossessed and providing security of tenure to many others who had lived on the land for generations.
“We have built houses, clinics, hospitals, roads and bridges. We have brought electricity, water and sanitation into millions of homes.
“All those who cast their vote for a better South Africa in 1994 laid the foundation for a democracy that enhanced South Africa’s standing in the international community and opened up opportunities for engagement and cooperation,” the President said.
As a democratic country, the new South Africa was able to build alliances, negotiate trade agreements and participate in international organisations to advance the interests of its people.
Various sectors of society attended the celebrations including musicians Yvonne Chaka Chaka, PJ Powers as well as Ministers and Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi. Lesufi joined the President in dancing to the tunes of Grammy Award winners Ladysmith Black Mambazo who entertained the crowd at the festivities. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sat, 04/27/2024 - 13:24
Freedom Day
By Nomonde Mnukwa
The South Africa we embrace today, where individuals are allowed to move freely, speak without fear and associate with whomever they want, would not be possible without the sacrifices of those who fought for our freedom. This year, as we commemorate 30 Years of Freedom and Democracy on the 27th of April, we will reflect on our journey thus far and our progress in advancing our democracy.
Our struggle to be free was brought about by many unsung heroes and heroines who were instrumental in the fight against apartheid and its unjust pass laws and discriminatory systems, such as Bantu education. Many in the liberation struggle were imprisoned, and some even lost their lives whilst in the pursuit of a nation that would be free from the shackles of oppression.
Today we have broken the barriers that once divided us and celebrate living in a nation where we are indeed free and have the freedom to choose, participate, be heard and be counted as citizens in a democracy. Our freedom holds even greater significance as we prepare to cast our votes for our nation’s seventh democratic elections.
Freedom Day serves as a reminder of our country’s very first democratic elections held on 27 April 1994. The historic first free and fair election of 1994 resulted in Nelson Mandela becoming the first black president and he declared that “to be free is not merely to cast off one's chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others”.
The democratic values of equality, freedom and human dignity is the foundation upon which the South African constitution has been built and this year we commemorate the 28th anniversary of the enactment of the constitution as the supreme law of our country.
The South African constitution has not only been instrumental in protecting our constitutional rights but has also played a vital role in forging a new national identity that protects our rich cultural heritage and diversity. It has also been influential in allowing for the redress of past imbalances.
Transformation through laws, such as Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment, Affirmative Action, Preferential Procurement, and plans such as the Reconstruction and Development Plan, were government’s initial attempts to reduce socio-economic disparities.
Over the years, there have been significant improvements to citizens’ lives as much work has been done to advance basic services.
From 1994 to date, approximately 12 million households have electricity, which is seven million more households than in 1994. Approximately 93 percent of South Africans now have access to potable water compared to 62 percent in 1994. Eighty percent of households now have access to decent sanitation compared to 50 percent in 1994.
The number of citizens in employment have increased substantially from eight million in 1994 to over 16.7 million in 2024. We have also prioritised providing social assistance through grants that support over 18 million poor and vulnerable South Africans.
Our social assistance programme is at the heart of government’s poverty alleviation programme and central to restoring the dignity of our people. Through it, we continue to improve the living conditions of poor, vulnerable and underprivileged South Africans.
However, despite these achievements much work still remains in ensuring that we eliminate poverty and reduce inequality by 2030 as envisioned through the National Development Plan.
It is now up to every one of us to continue the journey started in 1994. Together we can inspire hope for a better tomorrow and build a better nation for everyone.
*Nomonde Mnukwa is Acting Director-General of the GCIS
Neo
Sat, 04/27/2024 - 09:17
We asked the ANC, DA, EFF, IFP, FF Plus, ActionSA, PA, MK Party and RISE Mzansi
Reflecting on 30 years of Joekels Tea Packers being in business 30 years ago, South Africa was at a crossroads, preparing for the country’s first democratic elections. At the same time, Joe Swart and Jonathan Kelsey were formulating a business plan in Joe’s mom’s garage. The idea was simple – make quality tea available and …
But the right of prisoners to vote has at times been resisted by the government and the Independent Electoral Commission
President to lead Freedom Day celebrations
President Cyril Ramaphosa will lead the 2024 Freedom Day national celebrations at the Union Buildings in Pretoria this weekend.
“This commemoration calls on all South Africans to honour our past, celebrate our achievements, and collectively build a future where everyone enjoys equal rights,” the Presidency said on Wednesday ahead of Saturday’s celebrations.
This year’s Freedom Day marks the 30th anniversary of South Africa’s democratic dispensation and commemorates the nation’s first democratic election on 27 April 1994.
Celebrated Under the theme: “30 Years of Democracy, Partnership, and Growth,” this year's Freedom Month celebrations hold special significance as they also coincide with the 28th anniversary of the enactment of the South African Constitution as the supreme law of the land.
“Reflecting on the strides made over the past three decades, we honour the sacrifices of those who fought tirelessly for a democratic, equal, and discrimination-free nation. The Freedom Day event will unite all spheres of government and stakeholders and partners from all sectors of society in celebrating our democratic journey,” the Presidency said.
VIEW | Read our Special Feature on the 30 Years of Freedom and Democracy
The observance of this historic milestone comes as preparations are being finalised for the 2024 National and Provincial elections taking place on Wednesday, May 29.
“Freedom Day and Freedom Month seek to deepen understanding of South Africa's history and development, foster dialogue on our constitutional journey, and mobilise the public and private sectors towards addressing pressing challenges.
“Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture Zizi Kodwa, Premier of Gauteng Province Panyaza Lesufi, and Members of the Executive Council, along with mayors and senior government officials, will join President Ramaphosa on this momentous occasion,” the Presidency said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 04/25/2024 - 09:51
We sent questions to the ANC, DA, EFF, IFP, FF Plus, ActionSA, PA, MK Party and RISE Mzansi
IEC opens accreditation for all Results Operation Centres
The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has announced that it has officially opened applications for accreditation at all Results Operations Centres (ROCs) on Wednesday, 24 April 2024.
According to the IEC, a central accreditation system will be used for the national and nine provincial ROCs for the 2024 National and Provincial Elections (NPE).
Accreditation for all the ROCs is compulsory and must be done online at https://evolve.eventoptions.co.za/register/iecmedia2024 by selecting all the venues you will be attending.
The national ROC will be at Gallagher Convention Centre, 19 Richards Drive, Midrand, Johannesburg.
To qualify for accreditation, you will have to provide a headshot photograph, a valid media or press card, or a signed letter from your station manager or editor on an original letterhead requesting accreditation.
Applicants are required to indicate on their application at which venue they will be collecting their accreditation.
If collecting in person, you will be required to show proof of identification.
VIEW | Click here for our 2024 Elections Special Feature
However, if you will be picking up the accreditation on behalf of others, you will be required to show proof of identification and a letter of authorisation from a manager or editor with their names and ID or passport numbers.
Members of the media are requested to comply with the Occupational Health and Safety rules and regulations at all times within the facilities.
Meanwhile, media personnel are further requested to comply with the security rules and protocols while at the ROC facility.
The IEC said it reserves the right to withdraw the accreditation and card of any individual who fails to comply with the rules and regulations.
According to the IEC, journalists do not need accreditation to cover the elections at voting stations.
However, they will will need a media or a press card, or a letter from their station manager or editor on an original letterhead confirming employment and the ID or passport number.
Access to a voting station is with the approval of the Presiding Officer of the particular voting station.
The deadline to apply for accreditation at provincial and national ROCs will close on 10 May 2024, while the collection of accreditation cards will take place from 20 May 2024.
If you need assistance to register online or want to know whether your card is ready for collection, send an email to iec@eventoptions.co.za.
For queries on the requirements for accreditation, email to iec@eventoptions.co.za. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 04/24/2024 - 15:03