By REGINALD KANYANE
16 December 2024- The Democratic Alliance (DA) leader, John Steenhuisen said as the country spend the 16th of December celebrating the National Day of Reconciliation, they are reminded of the injustices that have scarred South Africa’s history and the profound impact these injustices have had on the nation.
Steenhuisen said, however, reconciliation is not about forgetting the past or pretending it did not happen but about acknowledging it, while celebrating the progress made as a country. He further said Reconciliation Day is about how South Africans are no longer strangers to each other, but patriots who are committed to building a brighter tomorrow on lessons learned.
“This year, the formation of a Government of National Unity has brought fresh optimism. This national government, encompassing diverse ideologies, beliefs, visions, and values, reflects a significant step towards shaping a new national story of shared aspirations.
“On this day, let us embrace this renewed sense of hope and dedicate ourselves to building cohesion and unity for inclusive economic growth and jobs, the keys to unlocking the opportunities that can lift up our entire country,” said Steenhuisen.
He said to those who say they no longer have the courage, hope, or largeness of spirit to rekindle the reconciliation that inspired this country 30 years ago, he said they will prove them wrong.
Steenhuisen said his call to all South Africans is simple: “Greet your neighbours. Wish them a blessed day and ask them about their hopes for South Africa. Seek moments of human connection, moments of proudly South African reconciliation.
“So, on behalf of the Democratic Alliance, I wish all South Africans a truly blessed Reconciliation Day.”
The Guardian 