By C. Perera, JadeTimes News
South Africa has embarked on a "new era," declared President Cyril Ramaphosa as he was sworn in for his second full term. Despite the African National Congress failing to secure a parliamentary majority in the recent election, Ramaphosa remains in office through a coalition with the Democratic Alliance and other parties.
During his inauguration speech, Ramaphosa celebrated the coalition government but emphasized the urgent need to address the nation's deep inequalities to avoid instability. He highlighted the electorate's demand for leaders to collaborate for the nation's benefit.
The inauguration, attended by leaders from Nigeria, Angola, Zimbabwe, Congo Brazzaville, and Eswatini, took place at the Nelson Mandela Amphitheatre outside the Union Building in Pretoria. A large crowd, waving national flags, witnessed Chief Justice Raymond Zondo administer the oath of office under a clear blue sky. The ceremony included the national anthem, a 21 gun salute, and a fly past by army helicopters.
The ANC, in power since the end of apartheid in 1994, lost its majority for the first time, securing only 40% of the vote, down 17 percentage points, and losing 70 parliamentary seats. However, Ramaphosa was re elected after the ANC formed a coalition with the DA, which won 22% of the vote, and three smaller parties. This coalition, aimed at addressing infrastructure, basic services, and job creation, represents a shift to the political center, as left wing and populist factions declined to join.
Ramaphosa stressed the coalition's commitment to reducing inequality and growing the economy but acknowledged the country's deep social divisions. He cautioned against those seeking to inflame tensions and undermine institutions. While he did not specify targets, his remarks seemed directed at the uMkhonto weSizwe party, formed by former President Jacob Zuma, which boycotted the inauguration and parliament's first session, labeling the coalition an "unholy alliance."
Ramaphosa is expected to appoint a cabinet including members from the DA and other coalition partners, who together control 68% of parliamentary seats. The president will soon outline policies to revive the struggling economy. Challenges ahead include potential ideological conflicts within the coalition, dissatisfaction from left leaning ANC members, and volatile political opposition. Nevertheless, many South Africans hope for the coalition's success, as Ramaphosa urged the nation to move forward together to preserve their achievements.
Ramaphosa, a former trade unionist and business tycoon, first became president in 2018 following Jacob Zuma's resignation amid corruption allegations, which Zuma denies.