SOWETAN | We have much to celebrate

• Published date: 26 April 2024
• Publication title: SowetanLIVE (Johannesburg, South Africa)

By any reasonable interpretation, it is a pivotal moment to reflect on our history, how it has shaped our present and what we hope will influence our future

For a nation that freed itself through years of a bloody and selfless struggle, our journey over the last three decades has been as inspiring as it has been disappointing.

Inspiring in its resilience to hardships, its commitment to democratic values and the protection of human rights here and abroad.

Disappointing in its failure to foster equality, to bring economic justice to the majority of black people who were previously marginalised.

Published in our pages today are memories of the day South Africans took to the polls to usher in a democratic government, which held so much promise.

That promise has, in part, been fulfilled by those from all walks of life who have chosen to carry the baton of selflessness in their service to the nation and its people.

That promise has largely been failed by those who place their selfish needs above public good.

It is these contradictions that have led some to question whether this milestone ought to invoke any sense of pride, let alone a celebration.

The truth is, we absolutely have much to celebrate. Despite many who believed ours would be a failed...