By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Deputy President Paul Mashatile emphasised that Human Rights Day is not merely a time to reflect on the past but a call to action for all South Africans.
Mashatile delivered the keynote address during the commemoration of the Langa and Sharpville Massacres, held at Kariega, Eastern Cape.
The Human Rights Commemorative events this year are held under the theme, ” Deepening a Culture of Social Justice and Human Rights* “, a call for a renewed and strengthened commitment from all levels of society, to accelerate practical solutions in driving inclusive growth and job creation; to reduce poverty and tackle the high cost of living; and to build a capable, ethical and developmental state.
South Africa has designated the 21 March to commemorate the National Human Rights Day, in remembrance of the Sharpeville Massacre that took place on the 21 of March 1960, where apartheid police killed 69 anti-apartheid peaceful protesters. This important day also honours 35 people who were killed on 21 March 1985 when apartheid police targeted community members after a funeral at Uitenhage and KwaLanga.
Mashatile was accompanied by the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, Premier of the Eastern Cape Province, Oscar Mabuyane, Members of the Eastern Cape Provincial Executive Council, Mayors, as well as senior government officials.
“As we commemorate Human Rights Day this year, we are reminded that the legacy of our Struggle is not one of remembrance alone, but one of action.”
Mashatile said the theme is not just a slogan but a pledge to ensure justice and equitable outcomes for marginalised communities, requiring commitment from all sectors of society.
“It calls on us to deepen our efforts in building a culture that respects and upholds human rights. This requires us to recognise the inherent value and dignity of every individual, regardless of their background, beliefs, or circumstances.”
This year also marks 30 years since the establishment of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), which he described as a crucial step in addressing past injustices, providing reparations for victims, and fostering national healing.
“While progress has been made in certain cases, significant work remains to be done to fully implement direct TRC recommendations, particularly in addressing systemic inequalities and ensuring that all victims receive appropriate redress.”
McKenzie, who spoke ahead of Mashatile, challenged him to fix the divisions that he said South Africans battle with.
In his response, Mashatile said: “The Sharpeville and the Langa massacres both starkly illustrate the grave human rights violations by the then apartheid government.”
“These tragic events exemplify the immense human cost of oppression and compel us to renew our commitment to building a society where such injustices are never repeated.”
“It calls on us to deepen our efforts in building a culture that respects and upholds human rights. This requires us to recognise the inherent value and dignity of every individual, regardless of their background, beliefs, or circumstances. It is important for us to actively confront the systemic inequalities that perpetuate injustice.”
He said the government’s commitment is reflected in the efforts of countless individuals fighting for justice around the world and in the sacrifices made by many on different fronts, including the brave South African Defence Force troops deployed to the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Mashatile also hailed Gqeberha social activist Pamela Mabini who was gunned down at her home in KwaZakhele two weeks ago.
“The task before us requires a unified effort, a partnership between government, civil society, business, and each citizen.”
“Let us embrace our responsibility to shape our nation’s future by exercising our democratic rights and working together to build a South Africa where social justice and human rights are not merely ideals, but a lived reality for all,” Mashatile said.
Mabuyane acknowledged the 40th anniversary of the Langa Massacre and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to uncovering the full truth.
He announced key investments, including R568 million for youth job creation through SETA partnerships, billions allocated to housing in Kariega, and R7.4 billion for public school infrastructure nationwide.
He also emphasized efforts to rebuild flood-damaged infrastructure in Nelson Mandela Bay.
The Premier committed to providing over 40 houses for KwaLanga massacre survivors.
Additionally, he pledged to intensify the fight against gender-based violence and noted that 119 life sentences have been handed down to GBVF perpetrators.