Ramaphosa Issues Surprising Instruction To South African Councils After Making Unexpected Pleas

President Cyril Ramaphosa has left South Africans with an unexpected message after making a passionate appeal to leaders serving in the country’s councils, urging them to embrace something he believes should exist even when political differences threaten to divide them.

In remarks that have drawn attention, Ramaphosa issued what he described as a presidential instruction, encouraging councillors to make time for laughter, music and dancing, regardless of their political disagreements.

“I give a Presidential instruction that in your councils find time to laugh together, to sing together, to dance together, even as you might differ,” Ramaphosa said.

The President’s statement carries a message that goes beyond the usual political discussions surrounding governance, elections and the responsibilities of public representatives. He is effectively encouraging those entrusted with leadership responsibilities to remember that disagreements should not prevent them from maintaining a sense of togetherness.

South African councils bring together representatives from different political parties, many of whom hold sharply contrasting views on how communities should be governed. Political tensions and competing interests can sometimes make cooperation difficult, particularly when important decisions have to be taken.

However, Ramaphosa’s appeal suggests that political differences should not automatically translate into personal hostility or an inability to work together. Even when councillors disagree on policies, political strategies and other matters, there should still be room for mutual respect and positive interactions.

His reference to laughing, singing and dancing together is particularly striking because these are activities deeply associated with South Africa’s diverse cultural identity. Music and dance have historically provided opportunities for people from different backgrounds to come together, celebrate and strengthen their shared sense of belonging.

The President’s message also places renewed emphasis on the human side of leadership, reminding political representatives that public service should not become an environment defined entirely by arguments, rivalries and confrontation.

At a time when political disagreements frequently dominate the country’s public discourse, Ramaphosa’s words offer a different perspective on how elected representatives should relate to one another.

His appeal is ultimately centred on the belief that people can hold different political positions without losing the ability to share moments of happiness, respect and unity. It is a message that challenges councillors to recognise that disagreement and togetherness do not necessarily have to exist on opposite sides.

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