Deputy-President Motlanthe said to adequately commemorate the victims of the anti-apartheid struggle, government must work harder to improve the lives of those who have not benefited from it.

"This means as government working with our social partners, we must strive to improve the quality of life of all our people by providing shelter, basic amenities, education and security," he added.

But he urged citizens to avoid violence and to voice their grievances through democratic institutions. He noted that poverty eradication, health and education are top priorities of the government of President Jacob Zuma.

Mr. Zuma did not attend the ceremonies. He was in Namibia to mark the 20th anniversary of Namibia's independence.