South Africa on Wednesday commemorated the 28th anniversary of the adoption of its post-apartheid constitution, with the presidency hailing the document as “the birth certificate of our nation” that secured basic rights and democracy.
The 1996 constitution is lauded as one of the most progressive in the world, establishing a constitutional democracy with a Bill of Rights protecting values like human dignity, equality and freedom. It provides for socioeconomic rights like housing, healthcare and education.
“Today, 8 May, we commemorate the 28th anniversary of the adoption of our constitution…the birth certificate of our nation. It remains the flame of our democracy and secures basic human rights,” the Union Buildings said.
The constitution arose from years of negotiations during the transition from white minority rule after apartheid ended. Its passage was a momentous occasion, establishing the foundations of South Africa’s post-apartheid democracy.
However, while the adoption of the constitution on May 8, 1996 marked a historic milestone, the government has faced criticism over the years for failing to fully realize many of the rights spelled out in the document.
Economic inequality and poverty remain entrenched legacies of apartheid despite constitutional promises. Concerns have also grown over corruption, institutional weaknesses and threats to the constitution’s system of checks and balances.
Around the country, civil society groups and others marked the anniversary with events reflecting on the constitution’s legacy and shortcomings and charting a path toward fulfilling its transformative goals.
