SHARPEVILLE – The wounds of the past were left open for victims and survivors of the Sharpeville Massacre over the weekend.

Despite the day being fully commemorated, there was a slight decline in how the festivities were carried out; it seems as though the day slowly lost its formula.

However, several political leaders graced the Phelindaba Cemetery in the entrance of Sharpeville, where 69 victims who were peacefully protesting against the pass laws lie.

A clarion call echoed throughout statements and speeches made during the remembrance event.

Political leaders and community members laid wreaths, while the Pan-Africanist Congress (PAC) continued its tradition of standing alongside affected families.

Among those in attendance were Herman Mashaba of ActionSA, Ace Magashule of ACT, and Mmusi Maimane of Build One South Africa.

Representing the Gauteng provincial government, Education MEC Matome Chiloane led official proceedings on behalf of the Premier.

The programme later moved to the Sharpeville Memorial Square, where families continued to pay tribute despite heavy rain.

Speaking to the media, Selloane Phethane said, “This day is important to me, especially as it’s raining because it was also raining on the day when people were shot. The rain shows that the commemoration was a success. My brother and I are survivors of the Sharpeville Massacre. Another brother of mine who was a leader was taken by police in June 1960 when he returned from prison, and we haven’t seen him since then.”

PAC Secretary General, Apa Pooe, said, “It’s sad what we see in this country. What was fought for in the struggle is not what we see now. The corruption and malfeasance are not what our heroes and heroines died for.”

Action SA’s Herman Mashaba called for the commemoration to return to its original label.

“This day should be called Sharpeville Day. Why do you want us to forget about what happened on this day?”

Ace Magashule stamped on Mashaba’s connotation, claiming one can’t speak of freedom when townships are decaying.

“You can’t talk about human rights when townships are filled with trash everywhere. Drugs and potholes fill our townships.”