Ramaphosa Sworn in as South Africa’s President for Second Term

Cyril Ramaphosa has been sworn in for his second term as South Africa’s president, emphasizing the significance of the broad coalition government formed as the “beginning of a new era. His inauguration took place in Pretoria, led by Chief Justice Raymond Zondo.

 Ramaphosa’s re-election followed May elections that resulted in no outright winner.

 The African National Congress (ANC) formed a coalition with five other parties, including the centre-right Democratic Alliance (DA).

Historical Context:

   The ANC, which came to power in 1994 under Nelson Mandela, lost its majority for the first time, securing only 40% of the vote.

   The coalition includes the DA, Zulu nationalist Inkatha Freedom Party, anti-immigration Patriotic Alliance, and the centre-left GOOD party.

 Ramaphosa must navigate ideological differences within the coalition, particularly between the ANC and DA.

Key issues include the National Health Insurance bill and the contentious Black economic empowerment programme.

Investors are cautiously optimistic about the DA’s involvement, which is expected to push for structural reforms and prudent fiscal policies.

Inauguration Ceremony:

Numerous heads of state attended, including Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Angola’s Joao Lourenco, Republic of the Congo’s Denis Sassou Nguesso, and Eswatini’s King Mswati III.

The coalition that formed this new government marks a significant shift in South Africa’s political landscape, reflecting a move towards broader representation and collaboration across party lines.

The effectiveness of this coalition will be tested by how well it can manage internal differences and implement policies to address South Africa's socio-economic challenges.

Ramaphosa’s administration now faces the task of balancing the coalition’s diverse viewpoints while addressing critical issues such as economic reform, healthcare, and social inequality.
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