MyZA

News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff

You are here: Home / Archives for Politics

Politics

Nigeria-SA relations critical for Africa’s success

Location: News

Nigeria-SA relations critical for Africa’s success

President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasised that understanding and partnership between South Africa and Nigeria is critical for the success of the African continent.

The President was speaking following a bilateral meeting between him and his Nigerian counterpart, President Bola Tinubu in Tshwane, on the back of the Presidential Inauguration held on Wednesday.

“[F]or me what matters most is to be able to have very good economic links with Nigeria. The two countries – South Africa and Nigeria – are very important in our continent and when the two countries work together, which we are, and we do things together, it benefits Africa.

“It is the two countries that are among the pillars of our continent and I’m particularly pleased that we support each other internationally in various fora, the UN [and other] multi-lateral institutions. Nigeria and South Africa are essentially joined at the hip and we want to engender good economic and trade relations between our two countries to address the challenges that our two countries face,” President Ramaphosa said.

On the domestic front, the President said the African continent has received South Africa’s Government of National Unity positively.

“We’ve set up a Government of National Unity and I’m particularly pleased that the African continent has responded very positively to the news that we will continue stabilising politics of our country. But more importantly, through the Government of National Unity, we’re setting a very strong foundation for economic growth and to be able to attract investments,” he said.

Tinubu – who attended the inauguration held on Wednesday – said discussions between the two heads of government mainly related to the economy.

“I’m here to congratulate my brother for putting together a very impressive outing – particularly for the Government of National Unity to stabilise the politics. That is coming at a very challenging time for the rest of us in Africa to really come up with collaborative economics that will help our downtrodden and vulnerable people,” said President Tinubu.

Wednesday’s inauguration which saw Ramaphosa inaugurated for a second term in office, follows on the 29 May 2024, National and Provincial Elections. The results of the elections produced no outright majority winner, requiring the leaders of different formations to work together in taking the country forward.

READ | GNU to advance the interest of all South Africans

– SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Thu, 06/20/2024 - 13:13

285 views
Read moreNigeria-SA relations critical for Africa’s success

President Ramaphosa re-elected to lead South Africa

Location: News

President Ramaphosa re-elected to lead South Africa

Cyril Ramaphosa has been re-elected as the President of the Republic of South Africa, who will lead the seventh democratic administration.

After a full day of proceedings during the first sitting of the National Assembly of the seventh Parliament, Ramaphosa -- the President of the African National Congress -- was on Friday evening nominated for the position of President.

The sitting took place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) in the Western Cape.

Three hundred and thirty-nine ballot papers were issued and counted, with 12 invalid ballots. Ramaphosa received 283 votes against Economic Freedom Fighters leader Julius Malema, who received 44 votes.

African National Congress Member of Parliament (MP), Mdumiseni Ntuli, nominated Ramaphosa for the position of President, and was seconded by Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) leader and MP, Velenkosini Hlabisa, during a process that was presided over by Chief Justice Raymond Zondo.

The President’s election came after former Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Minister, Thoko Didiza was elected as the Speaker of the National Assembly after a vote in the House.

READ | Didiza appointed new National Assembly Speaker

Didiza was declared by Justice Zondo as a Speaker after receiving 284 votes against her contestant, Veronica Mente from the Economic Freedom Fighters, who received 49 votes.

The Democratic Alliance's Dr Annelie Lotriet was elected as the Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly for the seventh Parliament. This after she received 273 votes, while fellow nominee, Vuyolwethu Zungula, the African Transformation Movement leader, received 54 votes.

The first sitting of the National Assembly took place after the General Election on 29 May. The day’s proceedings started with the swearing in of Members of Parliament, who either took an oath or affirmation that enjoins them to be faithful to the Republic of South Africa, and to obey, respect and uphold the Constitution and all other laws of the Republic.

READ | New Members of Parliament sworn in

South Africa’s recent National and Provincial Elections were the most contested and most compelling since the dawn of democracy in 1994. As in the post-1994 election period, President-elect Ramaphosa is expected to lead a Government of National Unity into the future.

This will be his second term as the leader of South Africa’s government.

He is expected to be inaugurated next Wednesday, 19 June.

Messages of congratulations

After Justice Zondo declared the re-election of President Ramaphosa, various political parties took turns in congratulating him.

Democratic Alliance leader John Steenhuisen said the day is a historic day for the country, and the start for a new chapter of building, cooperation, and putting the country’s interests and future first.

“In these elections, the voters chose not to give any party its own majority, and in doing so, they have told us that they want us to work together to build a prosperous non-racial, united South Africa, with a great economy that works for everybody. We must now rise to the occasion and rise to the call of South Africa,” Steenhuisen said.

EFF leader Julius Malema also congratulated the President, saying his party accepts the results and the voice of people of South Africa expressed during the elections.

“We are going to ensure that this Parliament is functional,” Malema said.

Inkatha Freedom Party leader, Velenkosini Hlabisa, said this is the beginning of a new era.

“The IFP stands ready to serve in the government of South Africa. We enter the government of national unity with an open mind and eyes wide open.”

READ | Date set for Presidential inauguration

Ramaphosa was sworn in as the President of South Africa for the first time on 15 February 2018 and again on 22 May 2019 after the 2019 elections.

The early years

The President was born on 17 November 1952 in Johannesburg. His family was moved from Western Native Township to Soweto in 1962, where he attended Tshilidzi Primary School.

He completed high school at Mphaphuli High School in Sibasa, Venda in 1971.

Ramaphosa began his studies at the University of the North in 1972, where he became involved in student politics, joining the South African Student Organisation (SASO) and the Black People’s Convention (BPC).

The President holds a law degree from the University of South Africa, and has received several honorary doctorates from local and international universities.

He received the Olof Palme prize in Stockholm in 1987 and was awarded the National Order of the Baobab in Silver in 2009 for his contribution to the multiparty negotiations and for chairing the Constitutional Assembly.

Prior to becoming the President of South Africa, Ramaphosa served as the Deputy President since 2012. – SAnews.gov.za

Matona
Sat, 06/15/2024 - 00:09

80 views
Read morePresident Ramaphosa re-elected to lead South Africa

Traditional leaders commend successful elections

Location: News

Traditional leaders commend successful elections

The National House of Traditional and Khoisan Leaders (NHTKL) has congratulated South Africans on the successful, free and fair elections.

This after millions of South African citizens participated in the peaceful process of democratic civic expression, making their voices heard through the ballot in the General Election held last month. 

NHTKL chairperson, Kgosi Thabo Milton Seatlholo, said in keeping with the principles of a seasoned democratic nation, the 2024 National and Provincial Elections reflect a maturing multiparty democracy in practice. 

Seatlholo said given that no party has achieved an outright majority, this mandates all elected political parties to work together, as per the wishes of the people. 

He said the NHTKL was encouraged by the maturity of the country’s party politics, as demonstrated during the campaigning phase. 

“To this end, we call on all parties to honour their individual and collective responsibilities of ensuring the establishment of the 7th democratic Parliament and Provincial Legislatures, based on a solemn commitment to advance the gains and interests of all South African people. 

“On behalf of the traditional communities in particular, we, as the institution representative of their will and aspirations, advocate for the formation of a government that recognises traditional leadership as a vital pillar in our constitutional democracy and a custodian of diverse cultures as well as traditions,” Seatlholo said. 

Seatlholo said the institution of traditional leadership, working together with government and the private sector, has recorded notable progress in the development of traditional communities. 

The chairperson said the formation of a new government is also an opportunity to consolidate the gains and accelerate inclusive rural development, as espoused by the Traditional and Khoi San Leadership Act, the 2019 InvestRural strategy, the Developmental Monarchy approach, as well as Agrarian Revolution. 

He emphasised that traditional leadership cannot remain outside of building the country through the formation of the 7th Administration. 

Seatlholo said the NHTKL was eager to work with a government that is sensitive to the land question, respects and honours the history and role of traditional leadership, noting that the liberation struggle was rooted in the struggle for land, which was inherited from traditional leaders; respects the institution of traditional leadership, its place, and its relevance within the democratic dispensation, and appreciates the role of traditional leadership as custodians of culture and custom in shaping identity in a plural society, and the significance of customary law.

“The National House would like to highlight its eagerness to work with a government that recognises the role that the institution of traditional leadership plays in supporting the ideals of cooperative governance, which is the foundation of effective, interrelated spheres of government, and promotes social cohesion, nation building, the fight against GBVF [Gender-Based violence and Femicide], poverty, crime, and other social ills.

“Traditional leadership makes a humble submission that the new government must give rise to the implementation of the different programmes of the institution that seek to bring the marginalised poor people in rural areas to the mainstream in order to benefit from government interventions,” Seatlholo said. 

The institution noted the voices of civil society and other stakeholders expressing their respective positions and making inputs into the process of forming the new government, which is currently unfolding. 

It further expressed confidence in the leadership engaged in the negotiations geared towards the country’s future, and encouraged inclusivity, with the hope that "each will not be ruled by narrow interests or be bullied by forces outside of what is best for our country and its people". 

“While no single direction will please everyone, the outcome has to inspire confidence and be in the interest of the majority of South Africa’s people,” Seatlholo said.

The NHTKL is a body composed of traditional leaders, who are delegates from the Provincial Houses. The traditional leadership represents over 20 million South Africans who reside in communities under the leadership of the institution. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Thu, 06/13/2024 - 10:22

426 views
Read moreTraditional leaders commend successful elections

Post-election Reflections and Scenarios Conference GQ

Location: MyPR

Do you want a deeper understanding of the outcome of the 2024 General Election? RICI will be hosting a conference entitled POST-ELECTION REFLECTIONS AND SCENARIOS on Wednesday 19 June, at the Bishop’s Lodge Conference Centre in Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) and streamed. The May 29 general election presents the country with many firsts, including the …

Read morePost-election Reflections and Scenarios Conference GQ

Unite for free, fair and peaceful elections – President Ramaphosa

Location: News

Unite for free, fair and peaceful elections - President Ramaphosa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has, in his weekly newsletter, called on South Africans to unite for free, fair and peaceful elections.

The National and Provincial Elections are expected to be held on Wednesday with voting stations opening at 7am and closing at 9pm.

Some 27 million eligible South Africans have been registered to vote in this year’s elections.

“Holding free, fair and peaceful elections is a barometer of the good health of our democracy. As we cast our votes on Wednesday, let us, in the words of our Constitution, 'honour those who suffered for justice and freedom in our land, respect those who have worked to build and develop our country, and believe that South Africa belongs to all who live in it, united in our diversity'.”

“Let us hold another election that is peaceful, that is free, that is fair and that is a credit to all the elections we have held since 1994. Let it be that the ultimate winner of this election is South Africa, our democracy, and you, the South African people,” President Ramaphosa said.

The President highlighted that since the dawn of democracy, elections have been held “without major incident” and expressed confidence that this year’s elections will also take place in the same vein.

“Once again, we have every confidence that this election will take place under conditions of peace, safety and tolerance, and that it will be free and fair.

“The integrity of our elections is testament to the high regard in which South Africans hold their hard-won right to vote. It is an affirmation that no matter what our political differences are, when it comes to safeguarding our democracy, we are prepared to put these differences aside for the common good,” President Ramaphosa said.

A look back

President Ramaphosa recalled how South Africa “was on the brink” on the eve of the first democratic elections in 1994 with “state-sponsored violence and the threat of a right-wing insurrection” contributing to a “sense of fear and uncertainty”.

“One newspaper carried a story at the time titled “South Africa hoarding as fear rises”. It described long supermarket queues of people stocking up on tinned foods, a rush to attend emigration seminars, panicked currency exchanges, and fearful callers to radio stations about sabotage of power plants and water supplies.

“We recall the courage of the political leadership at the time and their efforts to quell tensions. We recall the role of the leadership of the Inkatha Freedom Party, the African National Congress and the National Party in signing a memorandum of agreement for reconciliation and peace just three days before the election.

“We recall these events to remind ourselves of what is required of us all as we head to the polls on Wednesday. We are required to continue to honour the sacrifices of our forebears by exercising their right to vote and to do so peacefully. We are required to respect the rights of others regardless of who they are voting for, and regardless of whether they are voting or not,” he said.

Despite all the doomsday fears at that time, the President said, “none of these fears materialised”.

“As South Africans we have rejected the politics of fear time and again, and we will continue to do so.

“For the past thirty years we have chosen the path of peace over violence, of reconciliation over hate, and of unity over divisions of race, ethnicity or tribe. The stability and integrity of our electoral system bears witness to this,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 05/27/2024 - 10:05

71 views
Read moreUnite for free, fair and peaceful elections – President Ramaphosa

MDDA partners with media for elections training

Location: News

MDDA partners with media for elections training

In preparation for the 2024 National Elections, the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) has collaborated with the Electoral Commission (IEC) for the past year to implement a training programme for the community media sector to improve their coverage of the elections.

Through this partnership, the sector has been taken through the legislative amendments (Electoral Act), the Electoral Code of Conduct, prohibited conduct and applicable penalties, and free and fair elections.   

“For the first time since the first democratic elections in 1994, voters will have a wider range of options in terms of the individuals or political parties they want to elect for the National and Provincial Elections.

“As a result of amendments to legislation governing elections, voters will only be able to vote anywhere after notifying the IEC of the intent to such. Failing such notification, voters will only vote where they are registered,” the MDDA said on Monday.

Furthermore, voters will be faced with three ballots instead of the two as was done in previous elections. Independents may now contest National and Provincial Elections.

“Elections are a critical part of democracy. They give power to voters to choose their leaders and hold them answerable for their performance and level of service in office. Further, elections enable people through voting the opportunity to express their views on current issues as well as their frustrations towards leaders who may be failing them.

“However, to vote efficiently and choose a party or leadership that will enable the fulfilment of an equitable society, voters need to know where candidates and parties stand on public policy issues,” MDDA Chief Executive Officer Shoeshoe Qhu said.

With only three weeks left until Elections Day, the Agency is hosting its final leg of the elections capacity-building programme.

They will be conducting elections readiness sessions starting on 17th of May with an online session focusing on IEC legislative amendments and announcements, followed by a roundtable discussion on the 20th May 2024 unpacking the importance of safety on election day, the role of the church in politics and the impact of political party messaging.

The series of events will end with a full day workshop on focusing on fact checking, verification and the impact of generative AI on journalistic content training session on 22 May 2024.

The elections will take place on Wednesday, 29 May 2024. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

nosihle
Mon, 05/13/2024 - 10:46

393 views
Read moreMDDA partners with media for elections training

IEC invites citizens to pray for peaceful elections

Location: News

IEC invites citizens to pray for peaceful elections

The Electoral Commission (IEC) will today participate in a National Day of Prayer ahead of the 29 May 2024 National and Provincial Elections.

Organised by the South African Council of Churches (SACC), the IEC has called on citizens to join the prayer service that will take place on Sunday, 5 May 2024, at Grace Bible Church in Soweto, Johannesburg. 

The commission said the event is part of the ongoing partnership with different sectors of society to ensure a successful Election Day.

“The service calls for a powerful moment of unity and prayer as we seek divine guidance for peaceful and safe elections,” the SACC said. 

SACC Acting General-Secretary, Reverend Mzwandile Molo, said told the SABC that the council has committed to working hard to make sure the country’s elections are done peacefully and in a non-intimidatory manner since 1994.

“So, if there’s anybody who incites violence, that person needs all of us to ask them to refrain from that because the scars of violence that is caused by politics are too deep and they have not healed right now. We all want to make sure that we do not remind ourselves of the violence of the past,” said Molo. 

The SACC is an association of affiliated Christian churches and organisations that come together in action for social justice.

As an instrument and servant of its members, the council said it was committed to expressing, through proclamation and programmes, the united witness of the church in South Africa, especially in matters of national debate.

“Let’s come together as one nation in prayer,” the SACC added.

For citizens who cannot be there physically, the service will be streamed live on the SACC Facebook page from 2pm or they can tune in to Radio Pulpit or Radiokansel. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Sun, 05/05/2024 - 12:35

312 views
Read moreIEC invites citizens to pray for peaceful elections

10 Ways the LGBTQ+ Community Contributes to South Africa’s Rich Diversity

Location: MyPR

South Africa’s LGBTQ+ Community diversity is capably represented, amongst many others, by: Dr. Francois Venter (a leading HIV expert and pioneer in life-saving treatments), Somizi Mhlongo (the beloved TV personality, dancing his way into our hearts), former Constitutional Court Judge Edwin Cameron (an advocate for equality), and professor Sizwe Mabizela (Rhodes University Vice-Chancellor and champion …

Read more10 Ways the LGBTQ+ Community Contributes to South Africa’s Rich Diversity

Mashatile calls on leaders from all sectors to build SA’s economy

Location: News

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

387 views
Read moreMashatile calls on leaders from all sectors to build SA’s economy

Nxesi calls on all spheres of government to work together to fight unemployment

Location: News

Nxesi calls on all spheres of government to work together to fight unemployment

Employment and Labour Minister, Thulas Nxesi, says government spheres must do away with a “silos mentality” as it prevents service delivery programmes from reaching ordinary citizens.  

In an effort to eradicate unemployment in South Africa, particularly among the youth, Nxesi engaged several potential employers and work-seekers at the Saldanha and Vredenburg areas in the Western Cape on Thursday. 

The Department of Employment and Labour is hosting a two-day jobs fair and service delivery initiative, where Nxesi has paid a visit to work-seekers at the local Vredenburg Sports Ground.  

The two-day event commenced with an Employer Breakfast Session where the Minister led discussions on labour market issues and addressing unemployment in the province. 

Nxesi said unemployment and employment have nothing to do with politics. 

“I want to repeat this, employment or no employment knows no politics. It is a crisis facing our young people. Therefore, when we deal with the issue of unemployment, we must know that we are dealing with a crisis, which is facing our young people. 

“And we are saying, we are interacting with all the Premiers, but our intention is very simple because the Premiers have the authority to talk with their departments and their municipalities. At the end of the day, if we want these programmes to be relevant they must come to the district and local municipalities and that is our logic,” he said. 

He is of the view that the problem with the state is not allowing each sphere of government to conduct programmes in provincial, district and local government. 

“The District Development Model (DDM) says we must come down to the people to talk with them. The President said he wants integration and coordination of all the programmes between national and all spheres of government. 

“We should do away with the silos. The problem with government is silo mentality and territorial,” he added.

The department and the Minister have since embarked on the initiative to provide a platform for employers to share information, engage with stakeholders and develop partnerships. 

The jobs fair initiative is championed by the department’s Public Employment Services (PES) branch and seeks to create opportunities for work seekers and provide a platform to interact with prospective employers. 

“These efforts should be understood against President [Cyril] Ramaphosa’s 2019 Budget Speech in which he committed government to the roll-out of a new integrated district-based approach – popularly known as the DDM tailored to promote and support local businesses and local communities.” 

Nxesi raised concerns about the unemployment rate on the West Coast, which he said was “alarmingly high”. 

“In an attempt to mitigate this, the department has considered the Jobs and Careers Fair as a useful platform where the unemployed, especially the youth, can meet with prospective employers from different sectors to access both jobs and learning opportunities,” said the Minister. 

The inter-departmental jobs fair involves the Departments of Small Business Development and Higher Education, Science and Innovation. 

The session also provides a platform where people can get access to career information and employment counselling; registration of work-seekers and exhibitions by various departments; registration of vacancies and or recruit work-seekers on the Employment System of South Africa. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Fri, 04/19/2024 - 09:09

259 views
Read moreNxesi calls on all spheres of government to work together to fight unemployment

Play your part to consolidate democracy

Location: News

Play your part to consolidate democracy

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on citizens, political parties and civil society to work together to ensure that this year’s election is a “success in our ongoing journey of democratic consolidation”.

The President was addressing the nation through his weekly newsletter.

The 2024 National and Provincial Elections are expected to be held on 29 May this year.

“It is up to us all, whether as government, political parties, candidates, voters, the media or civil society organisations, to play our part by ensuring that our actions and words inspire faith in our democracy. We must continue to work together to ensure that nothing undermines the integrity of our elections.

“Above all, it is up to us all to ensure that this hard-won right to vote, for which so many sacrificed so much, is exercised by every eligible citizen in a climate free of intimidation and all forms of violence,” President Ramaphosa said.

This year’s elections will be the seventh held since the dawn of democracy 30 years ago.

As highlighted by the President, the country’s electoral processes together with the rights enjoyed by citizens and political parties to organise, campaign and contest, “are among the greatest strengths of our constitutional order”.

Valuable rights

President Ramaphosa reminded South Africans that in this country, politicians are free to contest and media freedom to report is guaranteed with the courts administering justice “without fear or favour, including an Electoral Court that oversees the work of the Independent Electoral Commission [IEC] and the conduct of elections”.

“As the country counts down to the election, the vibrant and robust campaigning that is taking place reflects how South Africa’s politics continues to evolve and mature. It is also a reflection of the many different views in our society and the variety of choices that voters have.

“In a democracy such as ours, we should not be worried about differences, even when sharply expressed. That is because the vast majority of South Africans value and respect the democratic process. They have faith in the rule of law and know that any disputes can be resolved through the courts and other legal avenues.

“Over the past 30 years we have held elections that are not only free and fair, but also peaceful and free of intimidation. Dire predictions of South Africa ‘regressing into violence’ or ‘democratic backsliding’ that regrettably remain a common feature of some reportage and analysis have been proven wrong time and again,” he said.

The South African voter

President Ramaphosa said that according to research, most South Africans “recognise the importance of their vote and believe they have a duty to vote” with the IEC commissioned research finding that some 57% of South Africans having expressed belief that voting is their duty.

“While youth apathy is often cited as a problem in our country, some 55% of 18-24 year olds saw it as their duty to vote. It is significant that young people accounted for over 78% of new voter registrations last year. The IEC research also found that the majority of respondents agreed that democracy is preferable to other kinds of government.

“Despite its many challenges, our democracy is in good health. Even as political and other forms of contestation continue in the run-up to this year’s polls, they are taking place under the broad umbrella of a constitutional order characterised by fundamental freedoms and human rights,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Mon, 04/15/2024 - 09:57

450 views
Read morePlay your part to consolidate democracy

S Africans urged to participate in the upcoming elections

Location: News

S Africans urged to participate in the upcoming elections

Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister, Thembi Nkadimeng, has urged South Africans to vote in the upcoming elections.

“Your vote is not merely a mark on a ballot paper; it is a voice – a voice that speaks volumes, resonating with the hopes, dreams and aspirations of our society. 

“It is a symbol of your commitment to the principles of democracy,” she said. 

Nkadimeng was addressing a conference on the impact of the upcoming General Elections on intergovernmental relations at the University of the Western Cape. 

The National Research Chair organised the Multilevel Government, Law, and Development event at the Dullah Omar Institute.

The conference addresses critical questions regarding governance, particularly concerning the challenges posed when different parties or coalitions govern at various levels of government. 

Nkadimeng used her platform to call on South Africans to unite in their diversity and go to their designated voting stations with purpose and conviction.

“Regardless of your political affiliations or beliefs, your vote is a precious right – one that countless individuals have fought and sacrificed for throughout our history. 

“It is a privilege denied to many worldwide yet bestowed upon us as South Africans. Let us not take this privilege for granted, but rather cherish it and wield it wisely.” 

This as the country is set to go to the polls on 29 May 2024.

Coalitions 

Nkadimeng touched on the instability caused by coalitions since the local government elections have underscored that some political parties are struggling to cope with the delicate demands and dilemmas of coalition politics. 

She highlighted the complexities involved and emphasised the importance of cooperation and coordination among government spheres, acknowledging the strain caused by conflicting agendas and ideologies.

These include “unscrupulous manipulation” by smaller parties to have governance by a small unrepresentative group of individuals and bribes with little thought on the impact of the same on the municipality and its ability to deliver services. 

Another hurdle, she said, is the infighting in councils characterised by walkouts, leading to an inability to adopt budgets, resulting in an administration that cannot spend its budget to address service delivery backlogs. 

The Minister spoke of the lack of due diligence when making key appointments, which results in compromised individuals appointed in critical positions.

“Yet, it is precisely during these moments of divergence that the resilience of our intergovernmental relations system is put to the test. 

“How do we navigate the waters of political pluralism while upholding the principles of cooperative governance? How do we bridge the divide between divergent political entities to ensure the seamless delivery of services and the pursuit of shared objectives? These are questions that demand thoughtful consideration and innovative solutions.” 

She also discussed lessons learned from the 2021 Local Government Elections, emphasising the need for coalition regulation to maintain stability.

Nkadimeng stressed the significance of legal frameworks, institutional mechanisms, and fostering dialogue and collaboration.

She reiterated the constitutional principle of cooperative government and intergovernmental relations, regardless of electoral outcomes, emphasising its importance for effective governance.

Central to the notion of intergovernmental relations, according to Nkadimeng, is the recognition of the interdependence among the three spheres (national, provincial and local) of government. 

She explained that each sphere possesses distinct powers, functions, and institutions, yet they are inherently interconnected. 

“Therefore, all spheres of government have to respect each other's autonomy while keeping one another informed of new policies and developments.”

Intergovernmental relations extend beyond mere cooperation. However, according to Nkadimeng, they encompass a complex network of interactions involving government institutions and civil society.

Effective coordination of public policies among national, provincial, and local governments is essential for ensuring coherent and impactful governance.

Regardless of the electoral outcomes when the South Africans go to the polls, she said she believes that it is important for all political parties to adhere steadfastly to the principles outlined in the Constitution of the country.

“Upholding the ideals of cooperative government and intergovernmental relations is not contingent upon political affiliation but is a shared responsibility integral to the fabric of our democracy.”

She concluded by outlining measures to maintain resilience in the face of political changes, including promoting continuity, trust, cooperation, and building institutional capacity within the intergovernmental relations framework. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Wed, 03/20/2024 - 15:07

321 views
Read moreS Africans urged to participate in the upcoming elections

A Betrayal of Trust and Empathy by Community Leaders

Location: MyPR

The case of the missing six-year-old, Joslin Smith, starkly exposes the Democratic Alliance (DA) as a party more concerned with political maneuvering and slander than with genuine empathy and care for the communities it claims to represent. The plight of little Joslin’s disappearance should have evoked immediate compassion and support. In such unfortunate times, there …

Read moreA Betrayal of Trust and Empathy by Community Leaders

African-American Billionaire Philanthropist, Robert Smith, Others Nominated for African Heritage Awards in South Africa

Location: News
Heritage Times HT

Johannesburg, South Africa's most populous city, is set to host the 2nd Edition of the African Heritage Awards (AHA) 2024, which aims to honour African greats who have impacted immensely to the advancement of humanity.

According to a statement issued on Friday in Johannesburg by the organizers, Heritage Times HT, the event is slated to hold on April 13, 2024, at the Sandton Convention Center, Johannesburg, South Africa.

The 'City of Gold' will host the prestigious pan-African event which is a sequel to the inaugural edition held on April 1, 2023 in Kigali, Rwanda. The African Heritage Awards is a gathering strategically organized to celebrate and recognize outstanding global accomplishments of Africans within the continent and in the Diaspora, in areas of Business, Politics, Philanthropy, Entertainment & Arts, Culture, Science & Technology, and Social Innovation.

This year's Awards is headlined by African-American billionaire Philanthropist, Robert. F. Smith, Chairman/CEO of Vista Equity Partners, Texas, United States; His Excellency, Dr. George Weah, former President of Liberia; His Excellency, John Dramani Mahama, former President of Ghana; Her Excellency, Mama Rachael Ruto, First Lady of the Republic of Kenya & Founder of Mama Doing Good Organization; Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization.

Others are: Mr & Mrs Strive Masiyiwa, Founder & Executive Chairman of International Technology Groups, Econet Global and Cassava Technologies; Adebayo Ogunlesi, Chairman/Managing Partner, Global Infrastructure Partners; Professor Thulisile Nomkhosi Madonsela, Founder of the Thuli Madonsela Foundation; Victoire Tomegah Dogbe, Prime Minister of Togo; Mrs Folorunsho Alakija, Managing Director of the Rose of Sharon Group and Executive Vice Chairman of Famfa Oil Limited; Othman Benjelloun, Co-chair of BMCE Bank Foundation and Madam Graca Machel, Founder of Graca Machel Trust and many others.

According to Heritage Times HT, the organizers of the African Heritage Awards 2024, it's expected that this year's edition will be more remarkable and historic, as it will be chaired by His Excellency, Sir Seretse Khama Ian Khama, former President of Botswana, and will be attended by former Heads of States and Captains of Industries across the African continent.

The recognition and awards, according to the organizers, have become imperative to sustainably foster the African culture of excellence, promote Afrocentrism, and create an ecosystem that will further retell the true African story towards the advancement of the continent's full potentials.

This year, the organizers are moving the African Heritage Awards to the southern divide of Africa, the home of Kwaito music and the cacophonous sounds of Amapiano, to specially honour distinguished African personalities, who have dignified themselves through remarkable achievements across the globe, whilst creating sustainable impact to uplift others.

Besides conferring international prestige and recognition on these deserving Africans, the Awards will focus on the critical importance of culture and leadership, which according to the organizers, lies at the core of any shared advancement of socio-economic and political development in Africa.

The Awards is also primed to cast a spotlight on individuals who, under challenging circumstances, have empowered Africans and impacted their sphere of influence to pave the way for sustainable and equitable development.

Taking cognizance of the reality that Africa is root to a plethora of people all over the world who continue to thrive and evolve despite the limitations and challenges stemming from stereotypes, the organizers of the AHA strongly affirm that the event will contribute immensely to changing the global perception of Africans, and also spur the needed critical mass for the attainment of cultural evolution and revolution in sustainable development.

For participation and reservation, kindly click on the link to register https://apo-opa.co/42qRL55

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Heritage Times HT.

Media files
Heritage Times HT
Download logo
Read moreAfrican-American Billionaire Philanthropist, Robert Smith, Others Nominated for African Heritage Awards in South Africa

Multi-Party Charter Unveils Plan to Reduce Unemployment and Poverty

Location: News

In the face of South Africa’s bleak economic outlook marked by 41% unemployment, a constrained business environment and decreased investor confidence, The Multi-Party Charter for South Africa has unveiled our plan to arrest this decline by stabilising public finances, generating inclusive economic growth, and enhancing the quality of our education system. Our approach to generating …

Read moreMulti-Party Charter Unveils Plan to Reduce Unemployment and Poverty