Cyril Ramaphosa Sworn In For Second Term As President

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa raises his hand as he is sworn is as a member of Parliament ahead of an expected vote by lawmakers to decide if he is reelected as leader of the country in Cape

On Wednesday, Cyril Ramaphosa was sworn in for a second term as South Africa's president in a ceremony held in Pretoria, the administrative capital. This follows his reelection with the support of a coalition of parties, marking a significant shift in the country's political landscape.

Ramaphosa is now tasked with appointing a Cabinet in a new coalition government after his party, the African National Congress, lost its parliamentary majority in the recent election. This will be the first coalition government in South Africa where no single party holds a majority, with at least three parties forming a government of national unity.

The inauguration ceremony, attended by dignitaries such as King Mswati III of Eswatini and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, featured a 21-gun salute and a flyover by the South African Air Force. Thousands of citizens witnessed the event, which also included performances by local musicians and cultural dancers.

In his address to the nation, Ramaphosa acknowledged the people's call for unity and collaboration to address their needs and aspirations. He highlighted the challenges of inequality and polarization that persist in South African society, emphasizing the government's commitment to creating job opportunities and improving basic services.

Coalition government formed after ANC lost parliamentary majority.

Ramaphosa sworn in for second term in Pretoria ceremony.

First coalition government in South Africa with no single party majority.

However, leading a coalition government comprising ideologically diverse parties poses significant challenges. Disagreements on key issues such as land redistribution, electricity crisis solutions, and affirmative action policies could hinder the government's effectiveness.

While major parties like the Democratic Alliance and the Inkatha Freedom Party have joined the coalition, others, including the Economic Freedom Fighters party, have opted out. The formation of the new Cabinet remains pending, with uncertainties surrounding the participation of certain parties.

As South Africa enters this new political era, the success of the coalition government will depend on its ability to navigate differences and prioritize the interests of the nation as a whole.