Political analysts have criticized President Cyril Ramaphosa’s State of the Nation Address delivered at Cape Town City Hall on February 6, 2025 (1800 GMT), describing his promises to tackle poverty and unemployment as a repeat of previous unfulfilled commitments.

Independent analyst Dr. Metji Makgoba highlighted the speech’s failure to address fundamental economic restructuring needs, despite Ramaphosa’s ambitious pledges for social reform.

“While the president acknowledges the country’s potential, the promises fall short,” Makgoba said. “You cannot resolve poverty and inequality through mere redistribution.”

The president’s reference to the 70th anniversary of the Freedom Charter drew particular criticism from Professor Sipho Seepe, who pointed to the African National Congress’s failure to deliver on its historic promises.

“The Freedom Charter speaks to the ANC’s glaring failure over the last 30 years,” Seepe said. “Ramaphosa’s presidency has seen a reversal of the gains made since 1994.”

Ramaphosa’s speech emphasized plans to professionalize the public sector and strengthen state institutions, proposals that analysts say have been repeatedly promised without substantial implementation.

The address highlighted South Africa’s persistent challenges with corruption and patronage, while heavily relying on private investment for economic growth, according to Makgoba’s analysis.

Critics argue that after three decades of ANC rule, particularly regarding land and wealth redistribution, the government’s track record contradicts its rhetorical commitment to the Freedom Charter’s principles.

The president’s vision for a united, non-racial, and prosperous South Africa contrasts sharply with the country’s current reality of deepening inequality and economic stagnation.