Two Marches, One Message: Pretoria Protesters Push for Ramaphosa's Exit on Mandela Day

Pretoria turned into a charged political theatre on Mandela Day as two separate groups took to the streets, both demanding the resignation of President Cyril Ramaphosa. The peaceful but powerful protests drew attention from thousands across the country, causing traffic chaos and sparking intense national conversations.

The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party gathered early at Church Square, waving flags, chanting slogans, and marching toward the Union Buildings with a clear message: they want accountability, and they want it now. Their primary demand? The arrest of officials allegedly involved in manipulating the police system, which they claim was used for political interference.

And they didn't pick Mandela Day by accident. According to MK supporters, it was intentional—a symbolic call for ethical leadership, in contrast to what they believe the ANC government has become under Ramaphosa.

In a different part of the capital, civic organisations assembled in Marabastad, echoing a parallel cry for change. Their grievances ranged from soaring unemployment, rampant corruption, the unresolved Phala Phala scandal, and the ever-growing cost of living crisis. Their frustration spilled into the streets, halting traffic and drawing the attention of both police and passing motorists.

These two protests weren’t linked by organisers, but by shared public fatigue with a government that many say has stopped listening. The union of voices, however informal, painted a stark picture of growing discontent in South Africa.

While Ramaphosa has weathered many political storms before, today's dual protests feel different. Not because of violence (there was none reported), but because of the timing, symbolism, and coordination—a political double punch on the very day meant to celebrate unity and sacrifice.

Many protestors carried posters that read, “This is not the dream Madiba died for,” a direct critique of the current state of leadership. Others used the occasion to highlight daily struggles—skyrocketing food prices, loadshedding fatigue, and the feeling that their votes no longer mean much in shaping the future.

And while critics may downplay today’s marches as political theatre or election posturing, it’s clear that something has shifted. Pretoria wasn’t just a city of protests today—it was a mirror reflecting a nation’s restlessness.

📌 What’s your take on today’s protests? Are South Africans finally reaching a breaking point—or is this just more political noise?
Vote in our quick poll and let us know in the comments:
“Should President Cyril Ramaphosa step down amid these growing public protests?”

• Yes, the time has come

• No, let him finish his term

• Only if proven guilty

• These marches don’t change anything

💬 Share your thoughts below—we're listening.

And if you missed the trending PDA moment that had everyone talking this week, read also: When L-Tido and Anele Zondo’s surprise kiss stunned Mzansi live on his podcast… only on Daily South African Pulse

From where I’m sitting, this isn't just about two protests. It feels like a boiling point. The people are speaking—but will anyone in power listen?

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Tags: #PretoriaProtests #RamaphosaMustGo #MandelaDayMarch #PhalaPhala #CostOfLiving #UnemploymentSA #MKParty #SApolitics #CivicVoice #DailyPulsePolitics