Freedom Day: Ramaphosa to mark 32 years of SA's democracy in the Free State

By Zikhona Miso

President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to deliver the keynote address at the official Freedom Day celebrations in the Free State. 

This year’s event, marking 32 years of democracy, will be held at the Dr Rantlai Molemola Stadium in Bloemfontein.

The day commemorates the country’s freedom from the brutal Apartheid regime and the day all citizens were allowed to vote in 1994, ushering in democracy.

Thirty-two years ago, South Africans across the generations and racial palette gave way to the rebirth of a nation that was later dubbed “The rainbow nation”.

In 2026, the day is being marked under the theme “Freedom and the Rule of Law, 30 years of democratic citizenship”.

Its focus is anchored on the supremacy of the constitution, the rule of law and the journey towards a non-racial and non-sexist South Africa. 

While some citizens have shared that there is little to celebrate with a range of issues still plaguing society, including rampant crime, corruption and a concerning unemployment rate.

The government is calling on South Africans to focus on the strides that have already been made.

Among notable figures expected to attend the event are Deputy President Paul Mashatile, other leading politicians and members of the public.

Motorists are advised of road closures around the stadium affecting streets including Khampepe, Thakalekoala, Goduka, Thulo and Mokoloko, among others.