South Africa has entered a “new era,” declared President Cyril Ramaphosa as he was sworn in for a second full term.
Despite the African National Congress (ANC) failing to secure a parliamentary majority in last month’s election, Ramaphosa remains in office. The ANC formed a coalition government with the Democratic Alliance (DA) and other parties.
In his inauguration speech, Ramaphosa praised the coalition but warned of potential instability if deep inequalities are not addressed. “Through the ballots that they have cast, the people of South Africa have made plain their expectation that the leaders of our country should work together,” he said solemnly. “They have directed their representatives to put aside animosity and dissent, to abandon narrow interests, and to pursue together only that which benefits the nation.”
Dignitaries from South Africa and African heads of states, including leaders from Nigeria, Angola, Zimbabwe, Congo-Brazzaville, and Eswatini, attended the ceremony at the Nelson Mandela Amphitheatre in Pretoria. A large crowd of supporters waving national flags gathered outside the Union Building, the official seat of government.
Under a clear blue winter sky, Chief Justice Raymond Zondo administered the oath of office. “I swear I will be faithful to the Republic of South Africa… I will obey, observe and uphold the constitution and all other laws of the republic,” the president pledged. The ceremony concluded with the national anthem, a 21-gun salute, and a fly-past by army helicopters.
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