Mandela Day Commemorated Amid Rising Political Tensions and Calls for Ramaphosa to Resign. Image: SABC News shared via X @SABCNews.
(The Post News)-
On July 18, South Africans honor the birth of the late former President Nelson Mandela, who was born in 1918 in Qunu, Eastern Cape. Every year, 18 July, is observed as Mandela Day, a moment to reflect on his enduring legacy and commitment to justice, peace, and humanity.
Mandela spent 27 years imprisoned by the apartheid regime for his role in the fight for democracy alongside other key activists and is celebrated globally for his belief in Ubuntu, anti-racism, and social justice. He was a firm advocate of giving back to society, and during his presidency, he donated half of his salary to the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital, a gesture aligned with his lifelong mission to support vulnerable communities.
The Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital, one of the few dedicated pediatric facilities in Southern Africa, continues to deliver specialized healthcare. Its services include renal care, pediatric surgery, neurosurgery, cardiology, cardiothoracic surgery, ENT (ear, nose, and throat), and intensive care for both neonates and children.
While many South Africans spent the day participating in acts of service and remembrance, some political groups chose to mark the day with protest action. Marches to the Union Buildings in Pretoria were held, calling for the resignation of President Cyril Ramaphosa.
The protests followed serious allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who claimed that Police Minister Senzo Mchunu is allegedly working in collaboration with criminal elements.
Several civil society organizations and political movements united in the demonstration. Mthunzi Luthuli of the Progressive Civics Congress declared, “We demand the president resign immediately,” accusing Ramaphosa of coming into power through irregular means in 2017, supported by the controversial and secretive CR17 campaign.
Luthuli further criticized the president for what he described as unchecked corruption during his term, citing the unresolved Phala Phala scandal, where Ramaphosa has yet to fully account for the incident.
The uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) has also joined the growing movement against the president. The party has submitted a formal letter to the presidency demanding Ramaphosa’s immediate resignation. One of their key concerns is the appointment of Professor Firoz Cachalia as Acting Minister of Police. A decision they argue is unconstitutional, given that Cachalia is not a sitting member of Parliament.
MKP spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndlela warned that if President Ramaphosa does not resign, the party will consider various peaceful and lawful avenues to hold him accountable. These include pursuing legal action through the courts, tabling a motion of no confidence in Parliament, and organizing nationwide mass protests.
According to Ndlela, these actions reflect the collective voice of South Africans who, through the ballot, made a clear statement against the leadership of the African National Congress under Ramaphosa.
As the nation honours Mandela’s values of justice and accountability, some citizens feel the current political climate is straying far from the principles he stood for.
Journalist-Kgopotso@thepostnews.net
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