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says the National Government of Unity (GNU) has heard the voices of South Africans and will abide by their wishes.
“The people have spoken loudly that they choose peace and democracy over violent, undemocratic and unconstitutional methods,” Ramaphosa says.
He was speaking shortly after taking his oath of office during his swearing-in ceremony at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Wednesday.
Surrounded by international dignitaries and several heads-of-state from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, Ramaphosa indicates that following the May 29 elections, the government is ready to deliver essential services.
“In their multitude, in voices that are many and diverse, the people of South Africa have voted and made known their wishes, their concerns and their expectations. They did not give any single party the full mandate to govern our country alone. They have directed us to work together to address their plight and realise their aspirations,” he says.
He further adds that the people of South Africa have also been “unequivocal in expressing their disappointment and disapproval of our (political parties) performance in some of the areas in which we have failed them.”
Some of the expectations by South Africans, Ramaphosa says, include a transformative society with an inclusive economy.
Ramaphosa, who returns for a second term in office, has warned decorators and those seeking to sow divisions that they will not succeed and adds that he will be a President of all South Africans and not some South Africans.
President Cyril Ramaphosa says he is committed to working with all political parties and sectors to find solutions to the challenges faced by the country.
Ramaphosa said this during his acceptance speech at the where he was sworn in as President of the country at the Union Buildings in Pretoria today.
He says his solemn oath affirms the will of South Africans, an unwavering faithfulness to the Constitution and the duty to unite all the people.
“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.”
Ramaphosa has also assured South Africans that their cries have been heard and the will not rest until every person receives every service they need.
Former President Jacob Zuma is the only former President who didn’t attend the ceremony.
Thabo Mbeki and Kgalema Mothlanthe attended along with other heads of states from the African continent and abroad.
President Ramaphosa says the people have been clear about what they want.
“Through their votes, they have made clear that they want the basic necessities of a life that is comfortable, happy, healthy, and secure. Through their votes, they asserted that they want enough food to eat, water that is clean, affordable electricity that is available at all times.”
@SABCNEWS
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