Ramaphosa: South Africans are tired of political bickering

South African voters did not give a single party the full mandate to govern the country alone, and have directed politicians to work together to address their plight and realise their aspirations.

These were the words of President Cyril Ramaphosa, against the backdrop of the Pretoria skyline, as he earlier delivered his first address as the seventh president of democratic South Africa.

“They (South Africans) have expressed their appreciation of the progress in many areas of their lives over the past 30 years of democracy.

“They have also been unequivocal in expressing their disappointment and disapproval of our performance in some of the areas in which we have failed them.”

Ramaphosa said citizens want a ‘transformed, growing and inclusive’ economy that creates jobs for millions of job seekers and offers business opportunities to all entrepreneurs in our nation – women and men, young and old.

“The people have been clear about what they want.”

Proceedings

Presidents and former presidents, dignitaries and politicians from across Africa and other parts of the world, gathered at the Union Buildings in Pretoria today, for Ramaphosa’s inauguration.

Some of the famous faces in attendance included former president Thabo Mbeki and Misuzulu Zulu, king of the Zulu nation.

Former President Thabo Mbeki and his spouse Zanele Mbeki arrive at the #PresidentialInauguration2024 taking place at the Union Buildings. pic.twitter.com/khVU2na21p

— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) June 19, 2024

Streets surrounding the Union Buildings were adorned with South African flags and members of the public were in high spirits, dancing to music and following the proceedings closely.

Shortly after the president’s speech, the national anthem was sung as a 21-gun salute was performed.

The Pretorian skies were filled with a mass military flypast following Ramaphosa’s maiden speech – including impressive displays by aircraft such as a Gripen fighter jet, and Rooivalk and Oryx helicopters.

Put citizens first – Ramaphosa

In his speech, Ramaphosa said above all, South Africans have made it clear that they are impatient with political bickering and the endless blame game among politicians and political parties.

“They want us to put their needs and aspirations first and they want us to work together for the sake of our country. Today I stand before you as your humble servant to say we have heard you.”

Ramaphosa said as the president, he will work with everyone to reach out and work with every political party and sector that wants to contribute to finding solutions to the challenges South Africa faces.

“Thirty years have passed since we turned our back on racial tyranny and embraced an open and democratic society.”

The president concluded by vowing to be a president for all who live in the country, and not just to some.

“Today, I make a solemn commitment to be a president for all South Africans; to defend our Constitution and protect our democracy; to work with all those who share the dream of a better life for all; to care for the poor and the vulnerable, and to support all those who are in need; and to make our country stronger, more resilient, more equal and united.”

Read Ramaphosa’s full speech here.

Deputy President Paul Mashatile and his spouse Humile Mashatile arrive at the #PresidentialInauguration2024 taking place at the Union Buildings. pic.twitter.com/EsjNVPMxao

— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) June 19, 2024