Large crowds of ANC supporters flooded the streets of Cape Town on Wednesday (May 1st), marching in solidarity with Palestine. The demonstration culminated in a vibrant rally at Athlone Stadium, organized by the Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu).
President Cyril Ramaphosa reaffirmed South Africa’s unwavering support for the Palestinian cause during his address at the rally. He urged workers to unite in the fight against oppression globally, emphasizing the country’s commitment to advocating for the rights of those facing violence and genocide.
“As workers, you need to join this fight to stand up for those who are oppressed around the world,” President Ramaphosa declared passionately. “South Africa has stood firm in support of the people of Palestine. We want Palestine to be free.”
The ruling African National Congress (ANC), in alliance with the South African Communist Party and COSATU, stands in solidarity with the Palestinian people. COSATU, the largest trade union federation in the country, voiced its unwavering support for the cause during the rally.
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“We are here to support our government, our movement, and the Palestinian cause,” proclaimed Zingiswa Losi, president of COSATU, to cheering crowds. “Our freedom is incomplete until the people of Palestine are free and liberated.”
Drawing parallels between Israel’s policies towards Palestinians and South Africa’s apartheid era, the ANC and many South Africans have long condemned the treatment of Palestinians. This sentiment has been a cornerstone of South African foreign policy, reflecting the country’s own history of overcoming institutionalized discrimination. 
With general elections slated for May 29th, South Africa’s support for Palestine underscores a key issue in the national discourse. As political campaigns intensify, the solidarity demonstrated on May Day signals a deeply ingrained commitment to justice and human rights, resonating both domestically and internationally.
