Pretoria – As the country prepares to mark the 17th anniversary of Freedom Day, Government has urged South Africans to observe April as Freedom Month, adding that the month provided an “opportunity” for all communities to display national diversity.
Cabinet spokesperson Jimmy Manyi, briefing media on Thursday, following this week’s Cabinet meeting, said the theme for Freedom Month was “Working together to unite the nation, promote democracy and protect our freedom.”
President Jacob Zuma is expected to address this year’s Freedom Day event at the Union Buildings in Pretoria, which will be followed by the awarding of the annual National Orders to various recipients.
“Cabinet expressed its full support for the National Orders. These are the highest awards that a country through its President, bestows on its citizens and eminent foreign nationals. The National Orders Awards takes place on Freedom Day to mark the contribution and selflessness that the bestowed citizens have made to our country,” said Manyi.
Ahead of the Easter holiday, Cabinet has called on the nation not to drink and drive and to take regular rest breaks as they embark on long journeys to get to their holiday destinations. “Adhere to the speed limits and all other regulatory signs on the roads,” he said.
Manyi said Cabinet was seriously concerned about the death on SA roads, especially alcohol related accidents.
He said Cabinet further expressed its regret over the death of community activist Andries Tatane, who died allegedly as a result of police action during a service delivery protest march in the Free State last week.
Condolences were also conveyed to the family of Constable Fihliwe Mavis Bengeza, the police officer who was shot dead while responding to an apparent ATM bombing.
“Cabinet urges all South Africans to remain calm and let the law take its course. Cabinet sends its condolences to the bereaved families,” said Manyi.
He added: “Cabinet calls on all men and women in the police service to continue to remain true and faithful to their oath and responsibility to fight crime and corruption… and without fear or favour to reach their goal of ensuring that all South Africans feel and are safe thus protecting the nation.” – BuaNews
