African National Congress (ANC) national spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri acknowledged on Friday that while significant accomplishments and milestones achieved honour former President Nelson Mandela’s legacy, the challenges remain.

“Persistent poverty, widening inequality, and high youth unemployment continue to hinder the promise of 1994,” she said.

As the world celebrates Mandela Day, the ANC issued a call to all its structures, members, supporters, and to society to renew their commitment to service and elevate grassroots initiatives.

Bhengu-Motsiri said the ANC committed itself to strengthening the capacity of its developmental State and renewing the ANC.

Mandela Day should be seen as a constructive platform for mobilisation and education and not merely a day for charity, she said.

“…it should inspire action and civic engagement in every ward, township, school, and workplace. Whether through nutrition programmes for schools, rebuilding homes, cleaning and greening our neighbourhoods, cultivating food gardens, or supporting our democracy, each of these actions can significantly contribute to dignity, equality, and freedom,” she explained.

FREEDOM CHARTER

July 18, 2025, marks the 107th birthday of the ANC leader and first President of a democratic South Africa.

Bhengu-Motsiri noted that this year’s Mandela Day was particularly special, as it aligned with the seventieth anniversary of the Freedom Charter.

She highlighted that Mandela played a crucial role in organising the Congress of the People in 1955, where the Freedom Charter was adopted.

In celebrating the seventieth anniversary of the Freedom Charter, Parliament reaffirmed its constitutional obligation to lead in the transformation of society.

“…through progressive legislation, effective oversight, and vibrant public participation, Parliament continues to strive for a South Africa that reflects the ideals by and for which Madiba lived and sacrificed,” it said.

The Presiding Officers noted that while Parliament carried the responsibility to enact change through its democratic mandate, every citizen also had a role to play. 

LAWS AND POLICIES

Meanwhile, Parliament also acknowledged that although significant strides had been made through laws and policies to improve the lives of millions, urgency and resolve iwere needed for a more just and equitable society.

To honour Mandela’s legacy of compassion and service, the Presiding Officers of Parliament are leading outreach activities throughout this month and beyond in support vulnerable communities across the country.