South Africa Marks 30 Years Since End of Apartheid with Growing Discontent Towards Government
South Africa recently commemorated 30 years since the end of apartheid and the birth of its democracy with a ceremony in the capital that included a 21-gun salute and the waving of the country’s flag. The anniversary, however, was coupled with growing discontent towards the current government, led by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
The African National Congress (ANC), the party credited with liberating South Africa’s black majority from apartheid, is now facing waning popularity and may even lose its parliamentary majority in the upcoming election. Despite the progress made since 1994, South Africa still grapples with vast poverty and inequality. High unemployment rates and a large portion of the population relying on welfare grants for survival continue to be pressing issues.
The ANC is increasingly being held accountable for the country’s current problems, including joblessness, crime, corruption, and failing basic services. Many young South Africans, known as “Born Frees” as they were born after the end of apartheid, are now old enough to vote and are seeking change beyond the ANC in the upcoming election.
Supporters of a new political party called Rise Mzansi made their presence felt at the anniversary event. They wore T-shirts with the message “2024 is our 1994”, indicating their desire for a different future for South Africa. The upcoming election is shaping up to be a pivotal moment in the country’s history as citizens look for solutions to address the challenges that persist in this new era of democracy. Stay tuned to KP INSIDER for more updates on the evolving political landscape in South Africa.
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