Ramaphosa urges Muslim voters to help shape South Africa’s future

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called upon South Africa's Muslim community to actively participate in the country's democratic process, warning that failing to do so risks allowing others to shape the nation's future. At a gathering hosted by the International Peace College South Africa (IPSA), Ramaphosa emphasized the importance of voter engagement, rejecting the notion that Muslims should abstain from electoral politics.

"Muslims are part of the South African community, plain and simple. They are South African citizens, and like every other citizen, they have the right and responsibility to participate in elections," he asserted.

Ramaphosa outlined six compelling reasons for Muslims to vote, tying it to principles such as equality, justice, accountability, and the country's liberation history. He highlighted how voting brings the ideals of the Freedom Charter and the Constitution to life, emphasizing that every citizen, regardless of religion, race, or background, has the fundamental right to cast their ballot. By voting, citizens can influence policies and decisions that impact their lives and communities.

The president stressed that voting is a means to hold leaders accountable, ensuring they remain committed to fairness, equality, and human dignity. He referenced key principles in Islam that align with these democratic values and paid homage to Muslim anti-apartheid activists who contributed to the struggle for freedom and democracy. Ramaphosa argued that faith and democratic participation are compatible, drawing on the rich history of civic engagement and public service within South Africa's Muslim community.

He also linked the struggle for justice in South Africa to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) case against Israel, connecting it to Nelson Mandela's vision of justice and freedom. Concluding his remarks, Ramaphosa urged Muslim South Africans to continue shaping the nation's future through democratic participation and to exercise their constitutional right to vote.