As South Africa celebrates Freedom Day, the country seems to be coming to terms with the reality that not all is well. Just a year before the country is at a 20 year mark since embarking on democracy, the 2013 Freedom Day celebration invoked mixed reviews among difference political parties and citizens alike.The main question that comes forth is whether freedom has changed the lives of majority of South Africans. A quick observation around the country indicates that indeed much has been attained in terms of improving the lives of South Africans. The reflections given by different political parties at the Freedom Day celebration in Pretoria suggest that South Africans should remain resilient and work harder to ensure that their hard worn liberties do not lose a meaning.Unlike it has been the case in previous years where Freedom Day speeches were glossed over with the history of anti apartheid movement, this year focus was on government‘s ability to deliver basic services to citizens.Political parties such as Azapo, the APC, and UDM criticised the ANC led government for failing to fight against corruption which threatens state capacity. The slow pace of land reform and continued economic exclusion of majority of citizens from economic participation is one of the challenges highlighted by opposition parties.The short speeches delivered by different political parties at the Freedom Day celebration show that South Africa is yet to achieve its true potential when it comes to securing meaningful freedom for majority of citizens.
Political parties such as Azapo, the APC, and UDM criticised the ANC led government for failing to fight against corruption
In addressing the nation as to how far South Africa has come since 1994, President Jacob Zuma attempted to assure the nation that it has a lot to celebrate. The President highlighted how government has rolled out infrastructure programmes; highlighting that black economic empowerment transactions amounting to 600 billion have been carried out since 1994.The President’s speech was short and rich in details. All this shows government commitment to ensure that freedom becomes a realistic and tangible experience in the eyes of ordinary citizens.While there is demonstrable evidence showing how much government has spent, that does not provide assurance that the money spent has fully impacted the lives of citizens. The most significant risk in this respect is corruption, which takes away basic services from the poor and the vulnerable.Celebrations such as Freedom Day are part of South Africa’s calendar. This year however, it seems that the nation prefer to critically evaluates its journey. The excitement that South Africa has taken a giant leap from apartheid is gradually fading away. The reality that freedom requires hard work is becoming apparent before the eyes of citizensThe attendance at Freedom Day celebration was relatively poor compared to the previous year. The official explanation of the poor turnout of people is that the ongoing bus strike has made it difficult to ferry people from different centres in Johannesburg.
The poor attendance could also be attributed to the fact that South Africans are having a conversation among themselves as to what has freedom meant to them.
I believe freedom is not an end in itself; it is rather the commitment to build a better society. Such a commitment requires constant maintenance and participation by citizens.
Ralph Mathekga is a political Analyst.
– By ANALYSIS: Ralph Mathekga, Political Analyst
