Ramaphosa's Second Inauguration Set for Wednesday in Pretoria
The inauguration will be broadcast nationally and internationally. Wednesday remains a regular workday in South Africa.
PRETORIA, South Africa — South African President-elect Cyril Ramaphosa will be sworn in for a second term on Wednesday after his re-election by Parliament earlier this month, writes Winston Mwale.
Chief Justice Raymond Zondo will conduct the swearing-in ceremony for Ramaphosa at the Nelson Mandela Amphitheatre in the Union Buildings in the capital, Pretoria.
The inauguration under the theme "30 Years of Democracy, Partnership and Growth" will be attended by South African royalty, members of Parliament, political party representatives, labor and business leaders, and other dignitaries.
It will also have a significant international presence, with 18 heads of state and government expected so far from countries including eSwatini, Lesotho, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Namibia, Angola, Tanzania, Uganda, China, Egypt, Palestine and Cuba. Three former heads of state and government and nine other high-level delegations are also anticipated.
A 21-gun salute, flyovers and a military parade are planned as the South African National Defence Force demonstrates its allegiance to the republic and the commander-in-chief.
Ramaphosa first became president in February 2018 after Jacob Zuma resigned. He was then elected by the National Assembly following the 2019 elections.
The African National Congress leader was re-elected on June 14.
A cultural program showcasing South African artists will precede the formal ceremony beginning at 11 a.m. local time.
Ramaphosa will deliver his inaugural address after being sworn in.
The inauguration will be broadcast nationally and internationally. Wednesday remains a regular workday in South Africa.