President Cyril Ramaphosa says the Government of National Unity (GNU) has listened to South Africans and will abide by their wishes.
“The people have spoken out loud and clear, choosing peace and democracy over violent, undemocratic and unconstitutional methods,” President Ramaphosa said.
He made the remarks shortly after being sworn in at an inauguration ceremony at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Wednesday.
Flanked by international dignitaries and several heads of state from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, President Ramaphosa said his government was ready to deliver essential services after the May 29 elections.
“South Africans voted with their numerous and diverse voices and expressed their hopes, concerns and expectations. They did not give any party the power to govern the country alone. They instructed us to work together to address their plight and realise their aspirations,” he said.
He added that South Africans have also “articulated their disappointment and frustration at the performance in some areas where we (the political parties) have not lived up to expectations.”
Before all of you gathered here, and fully conscious of the noble mission I have assumed as President of the Republic of South Africa, I, Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, pledge to be faithful to, obey, adhere to, support and uphold the Republic of South Africa… pic.twitter.com/sQW9lsgWaf
— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) June 19, 2024
President Ramaphosa says South Africans' expectations include a transformative society with an inclusive economy.
Ramaphosa, who was returned to the presidency for a second term, warned decorators and those seeking to stoke division that they would not succeed, adding that he would be president of all South Africans, not just some.
LIVE STREAM | South African Presidential Inauguration:
