Countdown to 30 Years of Democracy With CUT

Countdown to 30 Years of Democracy With CUT. The Central University of Technology, Free State, and the Mangaung Metro Municipality recently co-hosted a dialogue-themed event titled ‘Empowering Voices: Celebrating three decades of Human Rights Advocacy’. This event marked the importance of voting in sustaining democracy and promoting human rights in South Africa.

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Importance of Commemorating Human Rights & Freedom Day

Prof. Pamela Dube, Vice-Chancellor & Principal of CUT, emphasized the significance of commemorating Human Rights & Freedom Day. She highlighted the need for ongoing advocacy and dialogue to defend hard-fought freedoms while addressing contemporary challenges. Prof. Dube stated, “CUT views itself as playing a critical role in promoting human rights and sustainable development.”

Challenges Facing Democracy

Honourable Councillor Lawrence Mathae, Speaker of Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality, raised concerns about voter turnout and its impact on democracy. He suggested that declining voter turnout reflects challenges affecting human rights and democracy. Councillor Mathae questioned whether the democratic process is in crisis and if human rights are facing pushback due to modern political challenges.

The Importance of Voting

Mr. Mbuyiselo Botha, Commissioner at the Commission for Gender Equality (CGE), emphasized the importance of voting. He stated that those who do not vote have no right to complain about the state of affairs. Mr. Botha highlighted the need for action to ensure progress in the next five years, stating, “A lot has not happened which should have happened. What can we do to ensure that it will happen in the next five years?”

Conclusion

The event organized by CUT and the Mangaung Metro Municipality underscored the importance of voting in sustaining democracy and promoting human rights in South Africa. It called for continued advocacy, dialogue, and action to address contemporary challenges and ensure progress in the next decades of democracy.