Media Statements

Today, the African National Congress (ANC) joins millions of South Africans in commemorating one of the most significant milestones in our nation’s history, the inauguration of President Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela on 10 May 1994 as the first Black, democratically elected President of a free and democratic South Africa.

On that historic day, South Africa took its first steps away from the painful legacy of apartheid and racial oppression toward a future rooted in freedom, dignity, and equality. The inauguration of President Mandela was more than the swearing-in of a Head of State, it was a moment that symbolised the triumph of hope over hatred, reconciliation over revenge, and democracy over dictatorship.

President Mandela’s leadership embodied the core aspirations of the ANC and the people of South Africa: to build a united, non-racial, non-sexist, democratic, and prosperous society. Under his guidance, our nation laid the foundations of a constitutional democracy that cherishes human rights, protects the dignity of all, and provides mechanisms for justice, equality, and accountability.

We recognise that democracy is not only about the right to vote, but about building a society where every South African, regardless of race, gender or background, can access education, healthcare, jobs, and safety.

The democratic breakthrough of 1994 was not an end in itself, but the beginning of a long journey to transform the structures of inequality and division.

President Mandela, a recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993, was more than the founding father of our democratic nation, he was a global icon of peace and reconciliation. His leadership extended far beyond the borders of South Africa. He was a staunch advocate for African unity, peace, and solidarity. He stood firmly against the oppression of one state by another, and consistently called for the peaceful resolution of conflict throughout the continent.

Madiba championed dialogue over warfare, diplomacy over aggression, and justice over domination. Under his presidency, South Africa became a beacon of hope and an active participant in the African Renaissance, working to mediate conflicts, build peace, and support democratic governance across the continent. His moral leadership laid the foundation for South Africa’s continued role in peace-building efforts The ANC is proud to be the political home of Nelson Mandela who lived and led according to its values and ideals.

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