Media Statement

The African National Congress (ANC) commemorates the 71st anniversary of the adoption of the Freedom Charter, the historic declaration adopted by the Congress of the People in Kliptown on 26 June 1955. The Freedom Charter remains the lodestar of South Africa’s democratic journey and the foundation upon which the Constitution is built. Its enduring vision that “The People Shall Govern” continues to guide the pursuit of a non-racial, non-sexist, democratic and just society founded on equality, human dignity, freedom and social justice.

The Congress of the People served as the historic gathering of the Congress Alliance, consolidating the anti-apartheid forces of the 1950s into a united, non-racial front for a free and democratic South Africa.

The Congress Alliance comprised the African National Congress (ANC), the South African Indian Congress (SAIC), the South African Coloured People’s Organisation (SACPO), the Congress of Democrats (COD), and the South African Congress of Trade Unions (SACTU). Together, these organisations adopted the Freedom Charter on 26 June 1955, articulating a shared vision of a democratic South Africa founded on equality, justice, human dignity and the principle that “The People Shall Govern.”

This anniversary is observed alongside other defining milestones in our democratic history, including the 50th anniversary of the 1976 Soweto Uprising, 32 years of democracy, 30 years of the Constitution, and the 70th anniversary of the 1956 Women’s March. Together, these milestones remind us of the sacrifices made to secure the freedoms South Africans enjoy today and reaffirm our collective responsibility to advance the unfinished work of transforming society through redress, inclusive economic growth, quality public services, equality before the law and the empowerment of all our people.

As we reflect on three decades of constitutional democracy, the ANC recognises the significant progress achieved in expanding access to housing, healthcare, education, water, electricity, social protection and democratic participation, while acknowledging that poverty, inequality and unemployment remain pressing challenges. Declaring 2026 as the Year of Decisive Action to Fix Local Government and Transform the Economy, the ANC remains committed to building capable, ethical and developmental municipalities,creating jobs, investing in people, restoring dignity and accelerating inclusive economic transformation in pursuit of the Freedom Charter’s vision of a better life for all.

The ANC calls on all South Africans, particularly young people and first-time voters, to honour the legacy of the Freedom Charter by participating in democracy through voter registration and voting in the 2026 Local Government Elections. We encourage citizens to verify their registration details, utilise ongoing online registration and participate in the Open Voter Registration Weekend on 1–2 August 2026. By exercising the right to vote, South Africans give practical expression to the timeless declaration that “The People Shall Govern” and renew our shared commitment to building a united, prosperous and democratic South Africa.

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