SHARPEVILLE – In honour of the 69 fallen victims of the Sharpeville Massacre, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi visited the area and laid wreaths at the human rights precinct on March 21.
Lesufi was joined by several provincial MECs, Emfuleni Mayor Sipho Radebe, Sedibeng Mayor, Lerato Maloka, and survivors and family members of the victims to celebrate the 2025 Human Rights Day.
The day started bright and early at the Phelindaba Cemetery where the victims are buried, for the annual wreath-laying ceremony.
Addressing thousands who gathered for the wreath-laying, Panyaza said “The people that are lying here united us, it’s up to us that we work together and fulfill the mission that they died for. They didn’t die in vain, they died for change, they died for a better country that we live in and we will never, never betray them because betrayal is not an option. Selling out is not an option, there must be no one who must sell out the soul of our people sleeping here.”
After a crowd of PAC members stormed the memorial site, Panyaza and his delegation headed to the main event for his speech in a parked marquee tent at the Sharpeville cricket pitch.
Speaking at the event, Education and Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation MEC Matome Chiloane said the Sharpeville massacre stands as a moment in the nation’s history.
“A sacrifice that led to global condemnation of apartheid and strengthened the fight for freedom. Sixty-five years later, we witness the elevation of the Sharpeville Memorial Monument to World Heritage status, a testament to its enduring significance.”
The theme for this year’s event was Deepening a Culture of Social Justice and Human Rights.
“In Gauteng, we remain committed to advancing human rights, promoting social cohesion, and preserving our historical legacy. Our heritage sites serve as powerful educational resources, ensuring that future generations understand the cost of freedom and the ongoing responsibility to safeguard it,” Chiloane added.
