Human rights are not bargaining chips to be used for political gain - Amnesty International on SONA

JOHANNESBURG - As South Africa gears up for another election year, Amnesty International South Africa is urging against the common trend of politicking during the State of the Nation Address (SONA).
 
President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to deliver his 2024 address on Thursday night, ahead of the national elections later this year.
 
The human rights watchdog organisation is calling for SONA to have concrete plans rather than mere lip service to appeal to the electorate. 
 
Executive director, Sheila Mohamed, said human rights and basic services were not bargaining chips to be used for political gain, but fundamental principles that must be upheld regardless of the political climate. 
 
"South Africa will be celebrating 30 years since the first free elections in the country, and yet many people are still waiting for basic services such as water, quality healthcare, quality education, and adequate housing. In an election year, we urge against politicking and instead emphasise the importance of genuine commitment to human rights and social justice."