Corruption
Hundreds of South Africans gathered outside the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Monday, demanding President Cyril Ramaphosa’s resignation and greater accountability from his administration. The demonstrations, led by civil society groups, reflect growing public frustration over corruption, unemployment, and government inefficiency.
A coalition of civic movements, including #StandUp South Africa and Enough Is Enough, staged a demonstration at the Union Buildings on Monday, 20 October 2025, calling for President Cyril Ramaphosa to step down.
Protesters cited the government’s failure to address corruption, rising unemployment, and the deteriorating state of governance as primary reasons for the action.
Despite persistent rain, the march proceeded with visible determination as participants carried placards demanding reform and transparency. Organisers submitted a memorandum to the Office of the President, giving the administration seven working days to respond to their grievances.
According to the memorandum, protesters demanded the restructuring of key state institutions to eliminate political interference, improved accountability in public office, and urgent action on the economic crisis affecting millions of South Africans.
Khustaz Mtetwe, leader of #StandUp South Africa, accused the Ramaphosa administration of betraying its reformist promises. “Since 2018, this government has failed us. Instead of renewal, we have seen confusion, corruption, and growing despair,” he said.
Natasha Mkhabela, spokesperson for Enough Is Enough, reiterated calls for decisive leadership to tackle gender-based violence, youth unemployment, and service delivery backlogs. “We are tired of slogans and empty promises. South Africans deserve action,” she said.
The demonstration follows months of public dissatisfaction with government performance, particularly amid continued power outages, inflation, and reports of maladministration in state institutions.
Political analysts have noted that while protests of this nature are not new, the persistence and tone of the current demonstrations suggest deepening frustration among ordinary citizens.
Observers at the scene described the protest as peaceful but resolute. Police maintained a visible presence, and no major incidents were reported.
The call for Ramaphosa’s resignation underscores the widening gap between government promises and public expectations. As South Africa’s socio-economic challenges intensify, pressure on the presidency continues to grow.
The Presidency has not yet issued an official response to the memorandum, but protesters have vowed to return if their demands are ignored.
