Dr Ally reflects on the significant gains South Africa has made in its democratic journey, particularly in light of the recent elections. However, he cautions that much work remains for civil society organisations such as Inyathelo.

As we mark 30 years of democracy, our recent participation in the seventh national elections underscores the resilience of our constitutional democracy. This milestone is not just a testament to our democratic robustness but also a reflection of a peaceful electoral process.

Admittedly, voter turnout did not match the levels seen in our early democratic years, when an extremely high participation rate reflected the excitement and optimism of South Africans as they voted to end decades of apartheid.

Nonetheless, the 60% voter turnout in the 2024 elections holds up well when compared to voter turnout in other democracies. Notably, this election saw a significant increase in young voters, a development that deserves recognition and celebration. It indicates greater political engagement among young South Africans and renewed interest in shaping the country’s future.

The elections proceeded without major incidents and the overall process was orderly. The African Union Election Observation Mission observed the Independent Electoral Commission’s strong commitment to accountability and adherence to Constitutional principles. The peaceful nature of the elections was a positive sign for the country’s democratic stability.

The diversity evident in this election, with a record 70 political parties contesting, highlights the transformation of our country. This diversity and plurality are positive signs of a maturing democracy that embraces a wide range of viewpoints.

Yet, we must remember that our democracy is not something to be taken for granted. While there is much to celebrate, there are also concerning signs that we cannot ignore. Our Constitution, which speaks of healing the divisions of the past, was tested during this election by the rise of identity politics. The Constitution enshrines the principles of equality and dignity for all, yet the election period saw the continuing disparagement of those who are not South African citizens. The demonisation of so-called “foreign nationals” and use of pejorative terms like “illegal migrants” runs counter to the constitutional commitment to human dignity for all, not just South Africans.

Inyathelo acknowledges the progress made in our country, but remains acutely aware of the challenges that still lie ahead. The obstacles we face are profound, including inequality, poverty, gender-based violence, and other societal fault lines.

South Africa remains one of the most unequal countries in the world and a significant portion of the population is struggling to meet basic needs. Youth unemployment is particularly severe, and there is a significant disparity in educational outcomes, which contributes to ongoing inequality.

Ignoring these issues comes at great peril. The maturity and strength of a democracy are often measured by how it treats its most marginalised and vulnerable members, and in many ways, we continue to fall short of this standard. There is an urgent need for targeted interventions.

Civil society organisations, a critical pillar of our democracy, will continue to play a vital role as we strive to uphold the values enshrined in our Constitution. They foster transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement, and act as a watchdog, scrutinising government actions and advocating for policies that align with democratic principles.

These organisations mobilise communities, amplify marginalised voices, and drive grassroots initiatives that ensure inclusive participation in the democratic process. Their members contribute to shaping public opinion and policy by providing expertise, conducting research, and highlighting critical issues.

As we mark and celebrate our democratic advancements, it is essential that we find ways to build common ground, fostering a society where compromise, collaboration, and consensus are the cornerstones of our coexistence. Inyathelo has a crucial role to play in this next phase, working to strengthen the organisations that uphold and deepen the constitutional values that underpin our democracy.