Bloemfontein – Government has dismissed reports that the National Freedom Day celebrations were disrupted, clarifying that an isolated incident involving an individual approaching the stage did not interfere with official proceedings.
In a statement issued by the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) on Monday, authorities said they were concerned about “misleading reports suggesting that the National Freedom Day celebrations were disrupted.”
[WATCH] A person tried to jump onto the stage where President Cyril Ramaphosa was addressing the #freedomday2026 event in Bloemfontein. pic.twitter.com/YyQg1sMwtY
— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) April 27, 2026
“Government wishes to clarify that these reports are incorrect and may overstate the nature of the incident,” the statement read.
The incident occurred after the formal programme had already concluded, with the event transitioning into a cultural performance segment attended by President Cyril Ramaphosa and Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie.
“At the time of the incident, the formal programme of the Freedom Day celebrations had already concluded, and proceedings had transitioned into a cultural performance segment, with an artist entertaining attendees,” GCIS said.
According to government, the President and accompanying dignitaries were on stage engaging with the performance, while members of the public gathered nearby in an orderly manner, waiting for an opportunity to greet him.
“During this time, an individual, in a state of visible excitement, made his way onto the stage with the intention of greeting the President and the Minister,” the statement said.
Freedom and the Rule of Law: 30 Years of Democratic Citizenship https://t.co/HkyM8Y4Siq
— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) April 27, 2026
Security personnel intervened immediately.
“Security personnel responded swiftly, restraining the individual in line with standard protocol,” GCIS added.
Authorities emphasised that the individual posed no danger.
“It has since been established that the individual posed no security threat and did not attempt to cause harm. His actions were driven by enthusiasm and a desire to interact with the President and the Minister.”
Government reiterated that the event proceeded without interruption.
“Government further confirms that the official programme was not disrupted,” the statement said.
Following the incident, Ramaphosa continued to engage with members of the public, including the individual involved, who was reportedly pleased to meet him.
Officials have urged caution in sharing unverified information. “Members of the public and media are urged to rely on verified information and to exercise caution when sharing unconfirmed reports that may cause unnecessary alarm,” the statement concluded.
The statement was issued by acting government spokesperson Nomonde Mnukwa and deputy spokesperson William Baloyi.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
