A Presidential inauguration Big Screen event in Bela-Bela on Saturday 25 May attracted just under 200 people.
The event was meant to draw people from across the Waterberg.
Bela-Bela municipal spokesperson, Kabelo Mosito, said there were a number of reasons why the event did not live up to expectations.
He said the main reason could have been the beginning of the cold winter days for an outdoor event, which effectively means many chose to watch President Cyril Ramaphosa’s big moment from the comfort of their own homes.
He said many others could have been held up at weekend gatherings such as funerals.
The event did steam ahead, with sterling performances by gumboot dancers and traditional dancers.
A lone man waving a South African flag did also add spice to the lukewarm proceedings.
Those who were able to attend — largely the elderly and youngsters — had great fun watching the arrival of the president escorted by bikers, and also the Air Force fly-past.
At Pretoria’s Loftus Versveld Stadium — where the main event was staged — many from the Waterberg posted selfies and stunning pictures of the proceedings for the benefit of folk back home.
— The BEAT
