President Cyril Ramaphosa’s address to the nation on Sunday evening has sparked criticism after he used the power of the presidency to call a nationally broadcast address for what many believe was a pitch to voters two days before a pivotal election.
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In his Sunday address to the nation, President Cyril Ramaphosa urged South Africans to exercise their democratic rights in the upcoming elections.
Speaking from the Union Buildings, Ramaphosa emphasised the importance of the upcoming election and reflected on his administration’s achievements and challenges.
‘This is a campaign speech. Abuse of power by Cyril Ramaphosa,’ leader of Build One South Africa, Mmusi Maimane said in X.
‘Cyril Ramaphosa commandeered the national television channels tonight to give a last-ditch campaign speech, disguised as a presidential ‘address to the nation.’ The disguise isn’t fooling anyone,’ said Geoffrey York, the Africa correspondent for The Globe and Mail.
In his speech on Sunday night, Ramaphosa stated that South Africans who have registered for special votes will begin casting their ballots at 9 a.m. on Monday in voting stations and homes throughout the country.
‘Thousands of South Africans living abroad have already voted,’ Ramaphosa stated, emphasising the Independent Electoral Commission’s (IEC) logistical readiness.
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This election is the seventh democratic vote since the end of apartheid, a milestone highlighted by Ramaphosa as a testament to the Freedom Charter’s enduring principles.
‘We will once again assert the fundamental principle, articulated in the Freedom Charter, that no government can justly claim authority unless it is based on the will of all the people,’ he said.
The President praised the IEC for its meticulous preparations and the integrity of the electoral process, citing successful voter registration weekends, overseas voting, and strict adherence to electoral laws.
‘We commend the Independent Electoral Commission for the impressive work they have undertaken in preparation for these elections,’ he said.
Ramaphosa also addressed concerns about recent reports of electoral interference, including illegal entries into IEC storage sites in KwaZulu-Natal. He called for restraint and adherence to democratic principles.
‘We once again call upon all parties, candidates, supporters, and every South African to refrain from any action that could interfere with the due electoral process,’ he urged.
Reflecting on his administration’s tenure, Ramaphosa described the country’s recovery from a decade marred by corruption and state capture.
‘Today, we have put that era behind us. We have placed South Africa on a new trajectory of recovery and laid a strong foundation for future growth,’ he said.
The President emphasised key reforms in various sectors, efforts to combat crime and corruption, and the country’s coordinated response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
He emphasised the significant progress made in rebuilding the economy, combating youth unemployment, and addressing gender-based violence.
‘Together, we succeeded in administering more than 39 million Covid vaccine doses,’ Ramaphosa said, recalling South Africans’ collective efforts during the pandemic.
Despite the progress, Ramaphosa acknowledged the ongoing challenges and emphasised the importance of continued resilience and unity.
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President Cyril Ramaphosa to address the nation on Sunday evening
Picture: Brenton Geach / Gallo Images