Ramaphosa vows ‘new era’ at inauguration as S’Africa’s president

Cyril Ramaphosa has vowed to bring about “a new era of hope and renewal” as he was sworn in for five-year term as president of South Africa.

Ramaphosa took the oath of office in front of over 30,000 people, on Saturday, at a colourful ceremony at a stadium in Pretoria, the administrative capital.

“A new era has dawned in our country. A brighter day is rising upon South Africa,” he said.

“This is a defining moment for a young nation like ours. It is a time for us to make the future that we yearn for.

“I pledge here today that I will serve you …to build the South Africa that we all want and deserve.

“Let us declare that when we gather to celebrate the 50th year of our freedom there shall no longer be any person in this land who is unable to meet their basic needs”.

Foreign heads of state from more than 40 countries were among those who witnessed the event. Yemi Osinbajo, Nigeria’s vice-president, also represented President Muhammadu Buhari at the inauguration.

The African National Congress (ANC) leader was elected earlier this month with a majority of 57.5%, the smallest since the party came to power 25 years ago.

He had taken over from Jacob Zuma in 2018, after his predecessor was accused of corruption.

Zuma, who was not present at the inauguration, had repeatedly denied any wrongdoing and said the allegations are politically motivated.