The stage is set for a historic day in South African democracy as President Cyril Ramaphosa will be sworn in for his second term on Wednesday, June 19th.
Ramaphosa’s inauguration will take place at the Union Buildings in Pretoria, the same iconic venue where Nelson Mandela took the oath of office in 1994, marking the birth of the nation’s democracy.
This comes after Cyril Ramaphosa was re-elected as the President of South Africa on Friday at the first sitting of the National Assembly of the seventh democratic administration, which was held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).
The upcoming ceremony carries special significance as South Africa commemorates 30 years since its first democratic elections. The theme “30 Years of Democracy, Partnership and Growth” will underscore the solemn occasion and the country’s transformation over the past three decades.
In line with constitutional requirements, Ramaphosa must be inaugurated within five days of being elected as President by the National Assembly, which took place this past Friday. Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni announced the inauguration date on Saturday after the National Assembly vote.
“Consequently, the provisions of Section 87 kick in and the President of South Africa must accordingly be inaugurated on Wednesday, 19 June 2024,” Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, announced at a briefing on Saturday.
“The inauguration will bring together South Africans from all backgrounds, walks of life and political orientations, united in our diversity. It offers us an occasion to celebrate our democratic values and system of governance, including the agreed commitment of our body politic that the seventh administration will be one led by a government of national unity.”
The amphitheater at the Union Buildings will host heads of state, diplomats and other esteemed guests witnessing the presidential inaugural ceremonies. Meanwhile, preparations have been made to accommodate South African citizens who wish to partake in the festivities on the lawns surrounding the venue.
A major highlight will be the participation of the South African National Defence Force conducting ceremonial rituals such as a 21-gun salute, military parade, aircraft flyover and the presidential battalion marching past and pledging allegiance to the Commander-in-Chief.
Chief Justice Raymond Zondo will administer the oath of office to Ramaphosa, who will then deliver his inaugural address outlining his vision for the nation over the next five years. The programme will also feature an array of cultural performances celebrating South Africa’s vibrant heritage.
Tight security measures are being implemented, with restrictions on private vehicle access and road closures in the Union Buildings precinct. However, all South Africans are being encouraged to be part of the historic day by tuning in to television and radio broadcasts if unable to attend in person.
The day’s events kick off at 9am with an entertainment programme before the formal proceedings get underway at 11am. As Ramaphosa takes the oath, South Africa will reaffirm its commitment to upholding democracy, fostering national unity and continuing on a path towards greater progress.
