The president led the national Human Rights Day celebrations in Kimberley on Saturday (21/3) and said communities have an important responsibility to hold leaders accountable. This year’s Human Rights Month is observed under the theme A Legacy of Courage: Protecting Rights, Preserving Humanity.

Ramaphosa reflected on the country’s democratic progress over the past 30 years, but acknowledged corruption and weak governance have slowed efforts to improve the lives of millions.

The commemoration also marked the anniversary of the Sharpeville Massacre on 21 March 1960, where apartheid police killed 69 peaceful anti-apartheid protesters.

“Corruption, administrative weaknesses, and resource constraints have slowed the pace at which constitutional commitments have been translated into tangible improvements in people’s lives. 

“Everyone in society needs to cooperate with law-enforcement authorities to root out corruption, which is depriving our people of the goods and services that are their due.”

Those who choose a career in public life must critically consider their motives: do they truly want to serve the South African people, or is public office simply a means to self-enrichment? 

Ramaphosa visited a school for visually and hearing-impaired learners, including those with autism, ahead of addressing Human Rights Day commemorations at the AR Abass Stadium in Kimberley, where he also officially handed over a new sports centre, library, and laboratory at Retlameleng Special School.

Addressing learners and teachers, he congratulated the Northern Cape premier, Dr. Zamani Saul, on the province’s improvements in educational quality. “And premier, let me immediately say we really congratulate the Northern Cape for the achievements that you’ve made in education.”

Saul said Human Rights Day is a solemn reminder of our country’s painful history and the sacrifices made by countless South Africans who fought for freedom, for dignity, non-racialism, and equality.

“The rights we enjoy today were won through bravery, courage, resistance, and the unbreakable spirit of ordinary people who refuse to accept injustice.”

As the country looks ahead, Ramaphosa called for renewed commitment to ethical leadership and collective responsibility, stressing the next phase of South Africa’s democracy will depend on confronting corruption head-on.

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