Lazarus Dithagiso
VEREENIGING. – President Jacob Zuma signed a pledge in celebration of marking the 20th anniversary of the constitution at Constitutional Square outside the Sedibeng District Municipal offices in Vereeniging.
This was in celebration of the 20-year anniversary since the constitution was signed into law by former President Nelson Mandela in Sharpeville in December 10, 1996.
The constitution was signed into law in remembrance of those who died during the 1960 march against compliance withthe pass law.
Economic Freedom Fighters supporters occupied the front seats and then staged a walkout when the president was about to speak.The EFF said they cannot listen to a president who has underminded and violated the same constitution he now wants to ‘celebrate.’“He failed to protect, uphold and defend the constitution,” they said.
They also said that it is a waste of time to listen to Mr Zuma. “He must first account and apologise to the country and the ANC for using taxpayer’s money for his homestead and for having so many criminal charges against him.” The EFF said the event was for everyone, not only ANC. “We will continue to walk out once Zuma speaks of the constitution.We will rat out the corrupt leaders in the government.”
In his keynote address, Zuma said the government is addressing the legacy of apartheid. He said the government is addressing food security and that resources must be protected. More efforts are being made to address the land restitution and land reform. Millions of houses have been built since 1994.
The regional chairperson of the ANC, Executive Mayor of Emfuleni Local Municipality Simon Mofokeng, Provincial Chairperson of the ANC Paul Mashatile, and Premier of the Province David Makhura did not attend the function.
Most local ANC councillors did not heed the call to celebrate with the community.
Zuma was welcomed with thunderouss of applauses from the crowd outside the George Thabe Stadium.
Jacob Mamabolo was the acting premier. The president was joined by deputy president Cyril Ramaphosa, Public Protector Advocate Mkwebane, Human Rights Commissioner Advocate Mohammed Shafie Ameermia, Buti Manamela Deputy Minster in the presidency and Advocate T Masutha Minster of Justice and Correctional Services.
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