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FREEDOM is something that most South Africans do not take lightly nor for granted as we continue to reap the benefits of the country’s first democratic elections on April 27, 1994.
For some, April 27 is a holiday to be enjoyed but for many, who lived through the Struggle and transitioned into a post-apartheid South Africa, it was the day that they gained their freedom and witnessed the birth of the Rainbow Nation.
“It’s a shame that the kids of today will never know the feeling that we got, voting for the first time,” said 73-year-old Zukile Hlophe. “History was made that day, by thousands of people who wanted to see South Africa progress. I, for one, am very happy about how far we have come as a country; we are not perfect but steps are being taken each day to correct the injustices of the past.”
Thirty-one years into a democratic SA, freedom of movement, no segregation, being able love beyond racial lines, and building a home in whichever area that you may prefer, are some of the benefits of that vote. Berea resident, Jason Govender, said the change has been good but marred by the corruption within government.
“We most certainly do not want to go back to those days,” he said. “South Africa is a good country, but has its faults. If government can straighten up and root out corruption then we can all enjoy the benefits of that freedom that so many people lost their lives for.”
Also Read: Freedom Day: Durbanites share their first voting experiences
He said with freedom comes responsibility which is often negated by those in power. “We have to learn from our history and continue to work toward improving the life of all South Africans. We are blessed to have been able to move forward together, to a democratic SA, and we must cherish that freedom,” said Govender.
Although we enjoy a number of rights linked to our freedom, the freedom of speech, the right to quality education, economic freedom and shelter remain issues in modern day SA. With cancel culture holding the nation at ransom, rising unemployment, and pit toilets still in existence in rural schools, how far has SA come in terms of its freedom?
As we celebrate this day under the theme “United in resilience for the defence of our freedom and democracy”, we must remember those who fought for our freedom and honour the scores of citizens that stood in long queues for hours on April 27, 1994, to vote for a new and free SA.
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