FREEDOM DAY

By Robin Monakali

Many will remember the long snaking lines, the excitement and anticipation of the dawn of a new day in South Africa, and the feeling of being able to vote for the very first time. On 27 April 1994, the men, women, and children of South Africa emerged from the dark vale of oppression to stand in the light of freedom, as millions cast their votes, boldly declaring to the world that South Africa belongs to all who live in it.

Twenty-nine years ago, a new nation was born. On 27 April, which has been declared Freedom Day, South Africa commemorates the diversity, unity, and restoration of human dignity affirmed by the first non-racial democratic elections in the history of the country. For the first time, all races in the country were allowed to vote for a government of their choice. Nineteen political parties participated and 19.7 million people across the country voted. The African National Congress (ANC) won the election with Nelson Mandela becoming the first democratically elected president of the country.

Freedom Day is a day that marks the liberation of our country and its people from the tyranny of oppression and exploitation. It is a confirmation that we have made strides away from a painful history. The main focus of Freedom Day is to acknowledge and honour the nation’s journey to freedom and democracy. A great way to commemorate this day is to do something that reminds you of the struggle that many South Africans fought. For example, read one of the many books about our history, including Nelson Mandela’s autobiography, A Long Walk to Freedom, or visit Robben Island, the Apartheid Museum, Constitution Hill, or the township of Soweto.

Conflict Dynamics pays tribute to the great heroes and heroines who fought for our liberation and perished in pursuit of our constitutional democracy. In celebrating Freedom Day, we have so much to be thankful for, but we should also be mindful of the many challenges that still face our country.

HAPPY FREEDOM DAY SOUTH AFRICA!