President Cyril Ramaphosa’s State of the Nation Address (SONA 2025) has faced intense criticism from opposition parties, unions, and analysts. Many argue that his speech lacked substance and failed to deliver concrete plans for addressing South Africa’s challenges. Among the harshest critics was EFF leader Julius Malema, who dismissed the address as empty rhetoric.
Does the ANC Still Dominate SONA?
Despite speaking as the leader of a Government of National Unity (GNU), political analyst Daniel Silke noted that SONA 2025 still carried ANC’s ideological imprint.
“The address could have been delivered without a GNU in place. It re-commits to ANC policies like the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act and National Health Insurance (NHI),” Silke said.
Lack of Concrete Plans
Julius Malema condemned the speech, stating, “There is no plan or accountability. He says he will create jobs and develop infrastructure but doesn’t specify how.”
The EFF’s Gauteng spokesperson Dumisani Baleni added, “SONA is always filled with poetry and nice words but lacks a coherent plan.”
Corruption & the Phala Phala Scandal
Ramaphosa emphasized his government’s anti-corruption efforts, including introducing a Whistleblower Protections Bill. However, skepticism remains high.
“He has done nothing. Corruption has escalated, and the economy remains dire,” said MK Party spokesperson Bafana Mahlabe.
ACDP leader Kenneth Meshoe highlighted the Phala Phala scandal, saying, “Whenever he speaks about corruption, MPs will continue to heckle him.”
Opposition Calls for Urgency
DA leader John Steenhuisen stressed the need for deadlines. “We have four years left in the GNU. We need to show results.”
BOSA leader Mmusi Maimane echoed concerns, stating, “If you want a capable state, you cannot afford corruption at senior levels. We needed clear action.”
MK Party spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela dismissed the address as a reflection of a failing state. “It’s a disaster. Local municipalities are collapsing while water and electricity are being privatized.”
Infrastructure & Job Creation Doubts
ATM leader Vuyo Zungula criticized the lack of solutions for unemployment and economic stagnation in the SONA 2025. “People are suffering. Load-shedding is back, and crime is high. Since 2018, Ramaphosa has made promises with no results.”
ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba questioned how the government planned to regulate mining while allowing criminal syndicates to operate in South African mines.
BELA Act & Load-Shedding Promises
Ramaphosa announced measures to implement the BELA Act, but civil society organization Solidarity argued that these should have been in place before the law was enacted.
On load-shedding, the president promised an end to power cuts. However, AfriForum CEO Kallie Kriel suggested the government should work with local communities to find real solutions.
SONA 2025 Fails to Convince
While Ramaphosa painted a hopeful picture, critics remain unconvinced. Opposition leaders argue that the speech repeated past promises without a clear implementation strategy.
As Julius Malema summed it up: “No plan, no accountability.”
With mounting economic and social challenges, South Africans demand action rather than words. Whether the GNU can deliver remains uncertain.
Also Read: SONA 2025: ‘We Will Not Be Bullied’, Ramaphosa Claps Back at Trump’s Expropriation Act Criticism
