For a soundbite of Parliament Spokesperson, Mr. Moloto Mothapo, click on this link: https://iono.fm/e/1550216
Parliament, Sunday, 27 April 2025 – Today, South Africa proudly marks 31 years of freedom and democracy, commemorating the historic 1994 elections that ended centuries of colonialism and apartheid oppression. This day reminds us not only of the sacrifices of those who fought for justice but also of the collective responsibility we carry to protect and advance the hard-won freedoms that define our nation.
This year’s Freedom Day coincides with the 70th anniversary of the Freedom Charter, adopted on 26 June 1955. The Charter boldly proclaimed: “South Africa belongs to all who live in it, black and white, and that no government can justly claim authority unless it is based on the will of all the people.” It remains a living foundation of our democracy, affirming that “The People Shall Govern.”
At the heart of our progress stands the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, together with its cornerstone, the Bill of Rights. These instruments enshrine the values of human dignity, equality, freedom, social justice, and the rule of law. Since 1994, Parliament has worked relentlessly to enact transformative legislation aimed at dismantling the institutionalised racism, economic exclusion, and social injustices that characterised our past. Every law passed in the spirit of the Constitution drives a decisive break from the painful legacy of colonialism and apartheid, building a nation rooted in equal rights, shared prosperity, and the unassailable dignity of all people.
Yet, as we celebrate, we must confront the realities of our time. Freedom Day 2025 unfolds against a backdrop of complex domestic challenges — stubbornly high unemployment, deepening inequality, persistent poverty, and the ongoing battle against gender-based violence and crime. These are not just statistics; they are urgent calls for united action.
Parliament acknowledges that true freedom is measured not only by political rights but also by tangible improvements in the material conditions of our people. As the apex of democratic oversight, Parliament remains steadfast in holding the executive accountable, ensuring the implementation of development programmes, and passing laws that create jobs, fight corruption, expand access to education and healthcare, and promote a more just and inclusive economy.
South Africa’s hosting of the G20 Summit this year for the first time on African soil presents a profound opportunity. As global leaders gather in November 2025, we have a platform to champion an agenda of inclusive growth, social justice, and sustainable development — not only for South Africa but for the continent and the world. Parliament will proudly host the P20 Summit from 1–3 October 2025, bringing together Speakers and Presiding Officers of G20 nations to align parliamentary actions with the outcomes of the G20. Parliaments must play their critical role in translating international commitments into laws, policies, and budgets that make a real difference to citizens' lives.
As we celebrate 31 years of freedom, Parliament calls on every South African to remember: the liberties we enjoy today are the fruits of generations who struggled, sacrificed, and persevered. Freedom belongs to all of us — and it demands from each of us vigilance, commitment, and unity to nurture it, defend it, and pass it on stronger to future generations.
ISSUED BY PARLIAMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA
Enquiries: Moloto Mothapo
Arrange a tour