Cyril Ramaphosa was sworn in for his second full term as South Africa’s president during a ceremony in Pretoria, the administrative capital, on Wednesday. This inauguration marks the beginning of a new era for South Africa as it transitions to a multi-party government.
The African National Congress (ANC) failed to secure a majority for the first time since the end of apartheid, prompting them to form a coalition government with the opposition Democratic Alliance and other parties.
“The voters of South Africa did not give any single party the full mandate to govern our country alone,” Ramaphosa stated during his inauguration. “They have directed us to work together to address their plight and realize their aspirations. They have also been unequivocal in expressing their disappointment and disapproval of our performance in some areas where we have failed them.”
PRESIDENTIAL INAUGURATION 2024
🇿🇦 His Excellency President @CyrilRamaphosa at his Inauguration at the Union Buildings in Tshwane.
The Presidential Inauguration was hosted under the theme “30 years of Democracy; Partnership and Growth”, signaling the start of the 7th… pic.twitter.com/zDyEnx0bpG
— The Presidency 🇿🇦 (@PresidencyZA) June 19, 2024In his address, Ramaphosa promised to usher in a “new era” focused on improving basic living conditions for all citizens. He highlighted the need for adequate food, decent homes, clean water, affordable and uninterrupted electricity, quality healthcare for the sick and elderly, good schools, and other essential services.
Despite his reassuring words, leading a coalition government composed of ideologically opposed parties will be challenging. Ramaphosa emphasized his commitment to working with all parties in the government of national unity and warned that failing to address deep inequalities could lead to instability.
“We must reject every attempt to divide or distract us, to sow doubt or cynicism, or to turn us against one another. Those who seek to stand in our way, those who seek to inflame tensions, will not succeed,” he asserted.
Ramaphosa’s next crucial task is appointing a cabinet, which will likely involve intricate negotiations with the coalition parties. Although the current ministers ceased their roles once Ramaphosa took his oath, government departments will continue to function under their directors general in the interim.
Under South African law, there is no set deadline for appointing a new cabinet
