Nomazulu Moyo
PRETORIA, South Africa — Cyril Ramaphosa, South Africa’s president-elect, was inaugurated for his second term at the Union Buildings in front of thousands of South Africans and distinguished guests on Wednesday. The ceremony, presided over by Chief Justice Raymond Zondo, carried the theme “30 Years of Democracy, Partnership, and Growth.”
Key Highlights:
- Swearing-In Ceremony:
- Chief Justice Raymond Zondo administered the oath of office to President Ramaphosa at the Nelson Mandela Amphitheatre within the Union Buildings.
- The occasion marked a significant milestone in South Africa’s democratic journey.
- Prominent Guests:
- Attendees included local and international dignitaries:
- South African royalty
- Members of Parliament
- Representatives of political parties
- Leaders from organised labor, business, and civil society
- Religious figures
- South Africans who have excelled in various fields
- International organisations represented included the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the African Union (AU), and the United Nations (UN).
- Heads of State and Former Leaders:
- Several heads of state and former government leaders graced the event:
- King Mswati III of Eswatini
- King Letsie III of Lesotho
- Presidents of Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Namibia, Angola, Tanzania, Uganda, China, Egypt, Palestine, and Cuba
- Former Deputy President David Mabuza
- Former President Thabo Mbeki
Ramaphosa’s Address:
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In his inaugural speech, President Ramaphosa emphasised two critical issues:
- Crime and Safety:
- “We must unite against crime,” Ramaphosa declared. He pledged to strengthen law enforcement, address corruption, and create safer communities.
- “Our people deserve to live without fear,” he added.
- Job Creation and Economic Growth:
- Ramaphosa reaffirmed his commitment to job creation, economic development, and poverty alleviation.
- “We will work tirelessly to provide opportunities for all,” he stated.
Cyril Ramaphosa’s inauguration was a moment of celebration, reflection, and hope. As South Africa enters its next chapter, the themes of democracy, partnership, and growth remain at the forefront.
