South Africa’s Ramaphosa sworn in for second term as president, after coalition deal
- South Africa’s Cyril Ramaphosa was sworn in for a second full term as president on Wednesday, after his weakened ANC struck a government coalition deal
South Africa’s president Cyril Ramaphosa hailed the formation of a broad coalition government as the “beginning of a new era” on Wednesday as he was sworn in for a second full term.
“The formation of a government of national unity is a moment of profound significance. It is the beginning of a new era,” Ramaphosa, 71, said, after general elections last month produced no outright winner for the first time in 30 years.
Chief Justice Raymond Zondo led Ramaphosa’s oath of office ceremony before lawmakers, foreign dignitaries, religious and traditional leaders and cheering supporters at the Union Buildings, the seat of government.
“In the presence of everyone assembled here, and in full realisation of the high calling I assume as President … I Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa swear that I will be faithful to the Republic of South Africa,” Ramaphosa said.
Lawmakers voted overwhelmingly to re-elect the 71-year-old last week, after a May 29 general election that produced no outright winner.
After Ramaphosa took the oath, a band played the national anthem, followed by a 21-gun salute and a fly past by army helicopters towing large South African flags.