As South Africa marks 31 years of democracy, MPs call for reflection on reconciliation progress ahead of the national commemoration. The event takes place at Ncome Museum in KwaZulu-Natal, with President Cyril Ramaphosa delivering the keynote address. Leaders from different parties stress the importance of tackling inequalities and promoting unity.
South Africa prepares to observe Reconciliation Day on December 16, 2025, at the Ncome Museum in KwaZulu-Natal, a site tied to the nation's history. President Cyril Ramaphosa is scheduled to give the keynote address during the national event, which encourages reflection on 31 years since the advent of democracy.
Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture Chairperson Joe McGluwa has encouraged citizens to examine the country's common past and address ongoing divisions caused by inequality. He highlighted the need for joint efforts to enhance social bonds and safeguard cultural assets while expanding opportunities. "The committee urges all South Africans to reflect on this day, on our shared history to confront and rectify the inequalities that still persist and work together to build a more inclusive and vibrant future," McGluwa remarked. The committee pledges ongoing support for related programs and institutions.
Democratic Alliance leader John Steenhuisen described reconciliation as facing history directly to mend its damages, without ignoring past events. He connected this to the 2024 elections, which illustrated the electorate's role in advancing the democratic process. "Reconciliation does not ask us to forget the past. It asks us to acknowledge it honestly and work hard to bind the wounds that it caused and build a future in which every South African can share on the promise of our democracy," Steenhuisen expressed. He noted that voters' actions in 2024 paved the way for fresh developments.
Economic Freedom Fighters MP Chumani Matiwane contended that reconciliation holds little value absent justice, as apartheid's end in 1994 left deep economic, social, and psychological marks. He insisted on resolving underlying issues of disparity for real healing. "The EFF still maintains that reconciliation without justice remains an empty gesture. 1994 did not alter the race relations or bring about any fundamental changes in the economic, the social and cultural structure that existed under colonial apartheid," Matiwane stated, adding that apartheid's trauma persists among affected communities.
As the gathering approaches, discussions reveal varied perspectives on turning remembrance into substantive progress toward equity and cohesion.
