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Deputy President Paul Mashatile.
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has wished South Africans a safe and peaceful Christmas.
In his festive season message, Mashatile reflected on the past year, saying the country’s resilience and unity remain its greatest strength.
He called on South Africans to continue embracing the values of Ubuntu as the country looks ahead to 2026.
“The year 2025 has reminded us that our greatest strength does not lie in the corridors of government but in the resilience and unity of our people. Our most valuable resource is not buried beneath our soil; rather, it is the great courage and determination of all South Africans everywhere.”
VIDEO | Deputy President Paul Mashatile delivers 2025 Christmas message:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CqCKTFTWMuo
Mashatile says 2025 marked a watershed moment in South Africa’s fight against gender-based violence and femicide.
In his Christmas message, Mashatile reflected on sustained public pressure that led to GBV being declared a national disaster, describing it as a turning point in the government’s response.
He has called on South Africans to remain vigilant during the festive season and to help build safer communities for women and children.
“This classification is not the end. It is the beginning of intensified action to protect lives and restore dignity. Even in this season of celebration, let us commit to building homes, schools, workplaces, and communities where every woman and child is safe.”
