South Africa refuses to be bullied. That was the unwavering message from President Cyril Ramaphosa as he addressed the nation during his State of the Nation Address (SONA), responding to criticism from the US government under Donald Trump’s administration.
Speaking on the 70th anniversary of the Freedom Charter, Ramaphosa reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to democracy, equality, and global solidarity.
“We stand for our shared humanity, not for the survival of the fittest,” Ramaphosa declared. “We will not be bullied. We will stand together as a united nation. We will speak with one voice in defense of our national interest, our sovereignty, and our constitutional democracy.”
The president acknowledged the shifting global landscape, where nations are increasingly caught between cooperation and conflict.
He noted growing geopolitical tensions, rapid technological advancements, and the rise of nationalism and protectionism.
Despite these challenges, he remained resolute. “We are a resilient people. We are not daunted, and we will not be deterred,” he said.
A vision rooted in the Freedom Charter
Ramaphosa linked his message to the principles of the Freedom Charter, the foundation of South Africa’s democracy.
He reiterated its vision:
- A government based on the will of the people
- A nation where the land is shared among those who work it
- An economy where wealth is distributed equitably
- A society where all are equal before the law
It is these ideals, he said, that continue to guide South Africa’s path forward.
Navigating a changing world
The president acknowledged the challenges facing developing nations in a world dominated by powerful global players. From climate change to artificial intelligence, from economic competition to violent conflicts, he painted a picture of a world in flux.
However, he made it clear that South Africa would not retreat from the global stage or abandon its principles.
“As South Africans, we stand for peace and justice, for equality and solidarity. We stand for non-racialism and democracy, for tolerance and compassion. We stand for equal rights for women, persons with disabilities, and members of the LGBTQI+ community.”
A call to unity and action
Ramaphosa called on South Africans to unite, as they have done in the past—whether in the fight against apartheid, the battle against state capture, or the response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We want a nation united in its diversity,” he said. “Through partnership, we have overcome immense challenges before. Through partnership, we will build a future that works for all.”
With a Government of National Unity now in place, he urged political parties and citizens alike to set aside differences and work together for the good of the country.
“So this evening, let us speak of the nation we want. And let us speak of the work we must do—and the work we are doing—to build that nation.”
In the face of international criticism, Ramaphosa made it clear: South Africa will not bow to pressure. It will stand firm, true to its values, and continue forging a path that puts people before power.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to leveraging technology in law enforcement, saying the country is adopting surveillance, analytics, and smart policing solutions to modernize crime-fighting efforts.
Speaking during his annual State of the Nation Address (SONA), Ramaphosa highlighted the crucial role of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital forensics in combatting financial crimes, corruption, and violent offenses.
“We have seen the value of technology in fighting crime,” he stated. “By using AI in its fraud risk detection and verification work, SARS has prevented the leakage of over R95 billion in impermissible refunds, recovered R20 billion in revenue, and dismantled an illicit tobacco and gold scheme.”
The South African Police Service (SAPS) is strengthening its efforts against organized crime through targeted operations such as Operation Shanela, which has successfully led to arrests, firearm recoveries, and the seizure of stolen vehicles.
The President emphasised that tackling gun violence remains a top priority, instructing law enforcement to “prioritise reducing gun-related crime and violence, prevent firearms from entering the illicit market, and recover illegal firearms in circulation.”
To enhance investigative capabilities, SAPS will expand its Detective Service by 4,000 personnel through internal recruitment. Meanwhile, efforts to combat gender-based violence (GBV) will continue with the expansion of support services, including 65 Thuthuzela Care Centres and 16 new sexual offenses courts.
Ramaphosa also reiterated his administration’s unwavering stance against corruption. “We want a nation that is free of corruption,” he said. The establishment of the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption within the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has strengthened efforts to prosecute state capture cases, with over R10 billion recovered in related cases.
