Ramaphosa marks 30 years of SA Constitution, urges participatory democracy

Africa

PRETORIA, South Africa (NPA) — South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has used his monthly “From the Desk of the President” letter to reflect on the country’s democratic journey as it celebrates 30 years since the adoption of the Constitution.

In his message on Monday, May 25, 2026, Ramaphosa described the Constitution as the foundation of a robust, participatory political culture anchored in democratic values. He praised South Africans for their active engagement in public life, noting that civil society, media freedom, and the judiciary continue to safeguard accountability and transparency.

Recalling the constitution‑making process of the 1990s, Ramaphosa said the participatory approach — which included thousands of submissions and community consultations — produced a “People’s Constitution” that reflects the aspirations of all South Africans. He emphasised that this spirit of inclusivity remains vital today.

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The President highlighted ongoing mechanisms of public participation, such as Taking Parliament to the People, open budget hearings, and opportunities for citizens to comment on draft policies. He acknowledged that while participatory democracy can slow decision‑making, it is essential for legitimacy and public trust.

Looking ahead, Ramaphosa announced the next phase of the National Dialogue process, with up to 195 pilot dialogues scheduled between June and August across all nine provinces. These will include ward‑based, digital, and sectoral engagements, prioritizing community voices. He stressed that the dialogue must reflect South Africa’s racial, cultural, social, and geographic diversity, and called on young people to play an active role in shaping the nation’s future.

“As we look with optimism to this new phase in the life of our nation, I call on all South Africans to come together once more and be part of crafting a new vision for South Africa that both speaks to our contemporary challenges and lays the groundwork for the South Africa we want to be,” Ramaphosa said.

The President’s message stressed that the resilience of South Africa’s democracy lies in its people — and that the next generation carries the responsibility of building on the legacy of 1994.