The African National Congress (ANC) has admitted that not all the rights envisioned in the Freedom Charter have been realized, 70 years after its adoption. While the party claims eight out of ten clauses have been implemented, land redistribution and wealth ownership remain significant challenges.
ANC national spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri addressed these issues in an interview, reflecting on the progress made since the historic 1955 Congress of the People in Kliptown.
Progress and Shortcomings
Bhengu-Motsiri defended the ANC’s record, arguing that South Africa has seen substantial transformation since apartheid. She highlighted Soweto as an example of development, contrasting its current state with the dire conditions of 1955.
“Soweto today has clean roads, parks, churches, and thriving businesses—far from the beer halls and oppression of apartheid,” she said.
However, critics argue that economic inequality persists, with wealth still concentrated in the hands of a few. Bhengu-Motsiri pushed back, citing the growth of South Africa’s Black middle class as evidence of successful Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) policies.
“To say B-BBEE has only benefited a select few is disingenuous. Many professionals, including women in science and aviation, have risen because of these policies,” she said.
DA Ultimatum and GNU Tensions
The discussion also touched on recent tensions within the Government of National Unity (GNU) after President Cyril Ramaphosa reshuffled his cabinet, removing DA deputy minister Andrew Whitfield. The DA has since issued a 48-hour ultimatum demanding the removal of ministers they accuse of corruption.
Bhengu-Motsiri dismissed the demand, stating: “No party can dictate to the president who to appoint. This is not a military junta.” She accused the DA of failing to accept that “white supremacy is a thing of the past.”
Zambia’s Political Crisis Spills into SA
The interview also addressed the diplomatic strain caused by Zambia’s late former president, whose family is considering burying him in South Africa amid a dispute with the Zambian government.
Bhengu-Motsiri expressed condolences but emphasized that South Africa would not interfere. “We respect Zambia’s sovereignty and will handle this matter through diplomatic channels,” she said, noting that liberation movement allies would discuss the issue at an upcoming summit.
Conclusion
As South Africa marks 70 years since the Freedom Charter, the ANC acknowledges gaps in its implementation but insists progress has been made. Yet, with land reform, economic inequality, and political tensions unresolved, the debate over the Charter’s promises remains far from over.