On Wednesday, under the expansive Highveld sky, Cyril Ramaphosa was inaugurated as the President of South Africa in a ceremony marked by solemnity and hope at the Union Buildings. In his inaugural address, President Ramaphosa reiterated his commitment to a united, free, just, equal, and prosperous South Africa, emphasizing the country’s rich diversity and the enduring values of the Freedom Charter.
The event was attended by a distinguished assembly, including former Presidents Thabo Mbeki and Kgalema Motlanthe, international dignitaries, and leaders from various sectors of South African society. Addressing the gathering, President Ramaphosa underscored the nation’s collective responsibility to heal past divisions and confront present inequalities and hardships.
“We gather here, as people born of the same soil across our nine provinces, determined that by our deeds we shall heal the divisions of our past, and overcome the ongoing inequalities and hardships of the present,” Ramaphosa declared, reaffirming the government’s dedication to the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa.
Acknowledging the recent elections, Ramaphosa noted that no single party was given a full mandate to govern alone.
The voters of South Africa have directed us to work together to address their plight and realize their aspirations,” – he said. He committed to working with all political parties and sectors willing to contribute to finding solutions to the nation’s challenges.
Ramaphosa highlighted the need for a transformed, growing, and inclusive economy that creates jobs and offers opportunities to all, regardless of gender, age, or background. “The people have been clear about what they want,” he said, listing essential needs such as food security, clean water, affordable electricity, decent housing, and efficient public services.
Addressing the critical issue of state capture and corruption, Ramaphosa stated, “The people have demanded an end to the theft of public funds and the capture of the state.” He emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration among political leaders, urging them to put aside animosity and narrow interests for the nation’s benefit.
In a significant announcement, Ramaphosa revealed plans for a government of national unity, echoing the collaborative spi rit that marked the end of apartheid 30 years ago. This government will focus on rapid, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, poverty alleviation, workers’ rights, government stability, and state capacity building.
We will invite all parties, civil society, labor, business, and other formations to a National Dialogue on the critical challenges facing the nation, – Ramaphosa said, emphasizing the need for a collective effort to achieve the aspirations outlined in the National Development Plan.
Concluding his address with a message of optimism and hope, Ramaphosa called for extraordinary courage and leadership to move the country forward. He committed to promoting a multilateral approach for a fairer, more equal, and compassionate world, and to advancing development and stability across Africa through initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area.
In a heartfelt pledge, President Ramaphosa vowed to be a President for all South Africans, to defend the Constitution, protect democracy, support the vulnerable, and work towards a stronger, more resilient, and united nation.
“On this day, our hands are joined together. We are united. We are full of hope,” he concluded, invoking the spirit of unity and progress as described in Sandile Dikeni’s poem, “Love Poem for my Country.”
As South Africa enters a new era under Ramaphosa’s leadership, the nation looks forward with optimism to the realization of these ambitious and transformative goals.
