Cape Town – President Cyril Ramaphosa says that the ANC has a positive narrative to share, contending that the governing party has diligently strived to transform South Africa into a superior state compared to its apartheid-era past.
Ramaphosa said this while speaking during the ANC’s manifesto review ahead of the 2024 general elections.
He pointed to achievements such as increased access to electricity, the revival of some passenger rail services, and school nutrition programs.
Ramaphosa acknowledged the ongoing impact of apartheid on the country and likened it to the shadow of slavery in the United States.
“I know people never want to be blamed. It is reflecting on the damage apartheid did and apartheid continues to cast its shadow on our future trajectory. We cannot run away from it. Just like in America, they are saying the past (slavery) does cast a shadow on African Americans (today)” Ramaphosa said.
Engagement with Editors, Senior correspondents, Academics and Analysts to reflect on the 2019 Manifesto #ANCManifestoReview #PeoplesManifesto https://t.co/VUcEsNlvzY
— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) September 2, 2023
Regarding corruption and state capture, Ramaphosa expressed commitment to reform and said that work was underway to implement recommendations from the state capture inquiry, despite public demand for quicker action.
He also mentioned the recent tragic fire in a Johannesburg building and criticised the litigious nature of South African society, suggesting that excessive red tape and restrictions hinder progress, prompting him to direct ministers to review unnecessary laws while respecting human rights.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu