President Cyril Ramaphosa Encourages Hope and Optimism in New Year’s Message, Citizens Weigh In

• President Ramaphosa acknowledges the challenges faced by South Africans in 2023, including unemployment and poverty
• Despite the difficulties, Ramaphosa emphasised the importance of hope and optimism as the country enters a new year
• South Africans reacted to the president's message and shared their thoughts on what is delaying the country's progress

PRETORIA - President Cyril Ramaphosa took a moment in his New Year's Message to reflect on the challenges that marked 2023 for many South Africans.

According to SABCNews, he addressed issues such as unemployment, poverty, crime, gender-based violence, rising food prices, and a severe electricity crisis.

Ramaphosa urges citizens to remain positive

However, amidst the difficulties, Ramaphosa called on South Africans not to lose hope. He emphasised that the new year also brings opportunities for better things and a chance to overcome challenges.

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Looking forward, he proudly highlighted the upcoming celebration of three decades of independence as a significant milestone.

“As we look back on the year that has passed and the challenges it has brought, we must look to the future with hope. We must never lose our courage and we must remain determined to leave no one behind. I wish you all a happy and healthy New Year.”

Citizens debate Ramaphosa's message

The president's message sparked responses from citizens, who stated their opinions about factors hindering the country.

Peter Mukwevho mentioned:

"Very difficult because of ANC government."

Simphiwe Ngcobo wrote:

"Most of those difficulties I blame a guy in a picture."

Kholofelo Masilela said:

"The day he took over the office is when the difficulty started buddy."

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Sfiso Zungu added:

"It has been difficult since he got into the presidency."

Mushfeeqah Milady commented:

"The lack of jobs and loadshedding being a big contributor."

Ramaphosa vows ANC will get majority vote

In another article, Briefly News reported that President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed unwavering confidence in the African National Congress (ANC) electoral performance at the upcoming 2024 polls.

At the 2019 manifesto review wrap-up in Ekurhuleni, Ramaphosa addressed detractors predicting ANC's decline below 50%. He firmly stated that such wishes would not be fulfilled.

Source: Briefly News