30 years of democracy: Ramaphosa leads Freedom Day celebrations at Union Buildings

PRETORIA - Dozens of people are gathered at the Union Buildings in Pretoria where President Cyril Ramaphosa is leading Freedom Day celebrations to commemorate 30 years of democracy.

Ramaphosa is joined by members of his Cabinet, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, and senior government officials.

Saturday’s celebrations also come as the country commemorates the 28th anniversary of the South African Constitution.

Ramaphosa was welcomed to the Freedom Day celebrations by a 21-gun salute, an airshow, and a military parade.

On this day 30 years ago, millions of South Africans were awarded the opportunity to shape the country’s future by participating in the first-ever democratic election.

Minister of Labour and Employment, Thulas Nxesi, said Freedom Day served as a reminder of what it took to liberate oppressed South Africans.

“What first comes into my mind is where I was on this day 30 years ago. I was in Germiston, that’s where I stayed. Looking at where we are, we have advanced a lot.”

He said 30 years of democracy symbolised the commitment to growing and stabilising the nation.