Pretoria ward councillors, residents commemorate Human Rights Day

Tuesday, March 21, 2023, marks the 63rd anniversary of the Sharpeville Massacre where police shot and killed 69 people during a peaceful protest in the Vaal in 1960.

As part of commemorating this day, Rekord spoke to local ward councillors and residents about their views on the importance of celebrating Human Rights Day.

Ward 57 councillor David Farquharson said human rights were the basis of creating an equal-opportunity society.

Farquharson said this day should be celebrated, but most importantly that people should have human rights education.

“The most important human right is the right to life. On this day we should mourn the murdered who have died. Ask ourselves if our persons and property are safe.

“Today we will hear a lot of smug speeches by people responsible for the implementation of the bill of rights. Compare their claims with our constitution and ask yourself if a 30% pass rate is acceptable,” said the councillor.

Meanwhile, ward 69 councillor Cindy Bilson said the commemoration of human rights day was to reinforce the country’s commitment to the bill of rights as it was enshrined in the constitution.

“We have 10 bills of rights in the constitution. This year the focus will be on equality – all are equal before the law and have the right to equal remuneration and benefit from the law.

“Human dignity – everyone has inherent dignity and their dignity is respected and protected. Freedom of movement and residence – everyone has a right to freedom of movement and to live anywhere in the country,” Bilson added.

Sipho Zwane, a Mamelodi resident, said the day should be used to reflect on the progress made by the government in terms of safeguarding people’s dignity.

“Our government have made many strides in improving people’s lives, but I believe there’s more that needs to be done. Many would disagree with me, but not everyone would be happy with the progress made,” Zwane added.

Micheal Mohaka, an east resident, said all holidays in the country lost effectiveness and essence.

“People are happy to get a day off. We’re no longer fully aware of the day’s meaning.

“The crux is that the real reason to be afforded a holiday is to enable us to reflect, assess and stay the course,” said Mohaka.

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