President Cyril Ramaphosa says the violent protests and looting that broke out in the country recently shook SA's belief in itself as a united nation.
Addressing a virtual Heritage Day event on Friday, Ramaphosa said the country had to ask itself questions about its identity in the aftermath of the violent protests that broke out in KwaZulu-Natal and later spread to Gauteng.
“Our belief in ourselves as a united nation was shaken. We saw people destroying the very country we are trying to build. In the aftermath of the violence, we have had to ask ourselves, who are we as a people? What is it that defines our national character? What is it that defines our identity? What do we stand for?
He said the looting and violence, which his government has since characterised as an insurrection, happened while the country had been trying to get back to normal amid the devastating effect of the Covid-19 pandemic on the economy. “Just as we were doing so, we were confronted with the outbreak of terrible violence in some parts of our country. Property, infrastructure and businesses were destroyed. Jobs were lost, many people were injured and a number of them died,” said Ramaphosa.
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Ramaphosa addresses United Nations General Assembly on ending racismRamaphosa also wants the UN to 'put the issue of reparations for victims of the slave trade on its agenda'.
Read more »
President Ramaphosa hails major Eastern Cape road projects | CitypressPresident Cyril Ramaphosa says the construction of the N2 Wild Coast Road in the Eastern Cape will be of benefit to the provincial and national economies.
Read more »
'He was so well loved': Ramaphosa pays respects to family of Jolidee MatongoPresident Cyril Ramaphosa on Thursday sang the praises of the late Johannesburg mayor Jolidee Matongo, saying he was an outstanding leader who abhorred corruption.
Read more »
Zuma foundation mum on his reported presence in NkandlaThe Jacob Zuma foundation has refused to be drawn into commenting about the reported presence of former president Jacob Zuma at his home in Nkandla.
Read more »
Zuma discharged from hospital, back in Nkandla ahead of long weekendZuma was initially hospitalised in August for medical observation over an undisclosed illness.
Read more »