---
title: "The Emperor has no Clothes!"
description: "President Cyril Ramaphosa's 2021 State of the Nation Address was met with criticism for its lack of concrete plans to address South Africa's economic and social issues. The speech was largely focused on the successes of the government since 2019, despite high levels of unemployment and poverty in the country. Critics argued that Ramaphosa failed to provide any meaningful solutions to South Africa's problems, instead relying on vague promises. Many felt that the speech was a missed opportunity to address the nation's issues head-on and make tangible commitments to improve life in South Africa."
type: "NewsArticle"
publisher: "Daily Maverick"
site: "https://www.dailymaverick.co.za"
section: "CARTOON"
author: "Mgobhozi and UBUNTOONS"
author_url: "https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/author/mgobhozi-and-africartoons/"
canonical_url: "https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2023-02-07-the-emperor-has-no-clothes/"
published: "2023-02-07T10:17:25"
lang: "en-ZA"
---

# The Emperor has no Clothes!

> The Emperor has no Clothes!

By Mgobhozi and UBUNTOONS · Published 7 February 2023, 12:17 SAST

## Key points
- The 2021 State of the Nation Address (SONA) was delivered by President Cyril Ramaphosa on 11 February. While there were some positive highlights, such as plans to build infrastructure and create jobs, many felt that the speech lacked direction and failed to adequately address the country’s most pressing issues. Critics argued that it was too long, contained little detail and focused too much on grandiose rhetoric rather than concrete solutions. Ultimately, while Ramaphosa may have tried to dress up his SONA address in finery, it appears that the Emperor has no clothes.
- President Cyril Ramaphosa's 2021 State of the Nation Address was met with criticism for its lack of concrete plans to address South Africa's economic and social issues.
- The speech was largely focused on the successes of the government since 2019, despite high levels of unemployment and poverty in the country.
- Critics argued that Ramaphosa failed to provide any meaningful solutions to South Africa's problems, instead relying on vague promises.
- Many felt that the speech was a missed opportunity to address the nation's issues head-on and make tangible commitments to improve life in South Africa.

## Content

![Image](https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/MC-07022023-SONA-THE-EMPEROR-HAS-NO-CLOTHES-copy.jpg)