Cyril Ramaphosa Sworn in for Second Term as South Africa’s President
On June 19, 2024, Cyril Ramaphosa was sworn in for a second term as South Africa’s president at the Union Buildings in Pretoria. The ceremony marked the beginning of Ramaphosa’s second term, which promises to be a challenging one as he leads the country’s first coalition government.
The African National Congress (ANC), which has been in power since the end of apartheid, lost its majority in the parliament for the first time in the 2024 election. As a result, Ramaphosa had to form a coalition government with the main opposition party and a smaller third party. The new government, called a government of national unity, is the first of its kind in South Africa’s democratic history.
During his inauguration speech, Ramaphosa reaffirmed his commitment to building a united and prosperous South Africa. He said, “In the presence of everyone assembled here, and in full realization of the high calling I assume as President of the Republic of South Africa. I, Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, swear that I will be faithful to the Republic.”
The inauguration was attended by several heads of state, mainly from Southern Africa, and was live-streamed by various media outlets. Ramaphosa’s swearing-in marks the beginning of the seventh administration and the President’s term of office.
Ramaphosa’s re-election and the formation of a coalition government come at a critical time for South Africa, as the country faces numerous challenges, including a struggling economy, high unemployment, and widespread corruption. Ramaphosa will have to navigate these issues while leading a government made up of parties with different agendas.
Despite the challenges ahead, Ramaphosa remains optimistic about the future of South Africa. In a tweet, he said, “I am humbled and honored that you as NA have through your votes tonight decided to elect me to be the President of RSA. Thank you very much. It is with pleasure that I accept and will be a privilege and a pleasure to serve the great nation.”
As Ramaphosa begins his second term, all eyes will be on him to see how he addresses the country’s pressing issues and leads South Africa into a new era of unity and prosperity.
