– ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa was inaugurated as President of the country for the 7th administration.
The ceremony held at the Union Buildings in Tshwane on Wednesday, June 19, 2024, follows his re-election by the members of Parliament at the first sitting of the National Assembly at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (ICC) on June 14.
Ramaphosa’s re-election at the National Assembly came after a decisive victory when he secured 283 votes against Julius Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), who received only 44 votes.
He received support from the Democratic Alliance (DA), Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), Patriot Alliance (PA) and Freedom Front Plus (FF+) after reaching agreement to form a Government of National Unity (GNU) following his party dismally failed to get majority votes during the national and provincial elections held on 29 May.
“This moment is pivotal for our nation, demanding unity and decisive action to strengthen our constitutional democracy and uphold the rule of law,” Ramaphosa said in his acceptance speech.
He expressed determination to lead the country towards inclusive growth and equitable development.
Ramaphosa’s presidency aims to address pressing issues such as unemployment, inequality and sustainable development, economic recovery, social equity, and the fight against corruption. The President is expected to announce his cabinet, anytime from now, which will include various members of different political parties who have the GNU agreement