PRETORIA, June 19 – South African President Cyril Ramaphosa vowed on Wednesday to address inequality and improve basic living conditions for all citizens as he was sworn in for a second term. His pledge comes as his African National Congress (ANC) shares power with five other parties following a significant electoral setback.
In the May 29 elections, the ANC lost its parliamentary majority for the first time in 30 years, prompting Ramaphosa to acknowledge the voters’ dissatisfaction with the party’s performance. “The voters have been unequivocal in expressing their disappointment and disapproval of our performance in some areas where we have failed them,” he said at his inauguration in Pretoria.
Ramaphosa highlighted the electorate’s demands for sufficient food, decent housing, clean water, reliable and affordable electricity, well-maintained infrastructure, quality healthcare, and education. “Today, I stand before you as your humble servant to say we have heard you,” he declared. “We must move forward to bridge the gaps between South Africans and build a more equal society.”
Despite the ANC remaining the largest party, the pro-business Democratic Alliance (DA) emerged as a significant force, critical of the ANC’s governance but agreeing to join the new coalition government. Investors have welcomed the DA’s inclusion, given its focus on structural reforms and fiscal prudence, although analysts caution that ideological differences could destabilize the coalition.
Prior to the election, Ramaphosa signed the National Health Insurance bill into law, which the DA argues could further strain the healthcare system. The future of this law under the new administration remains uncertain. Additionally, the DA’s call to abolish the ANC’s Black Economic Empowerment program, citing its ineffectiveness, adds to the contentious issues facing the coalition.
The ANC, which rose to power under Nelson Mandela in the 1994 elections ending apartheid, has seen its dominance erode due to economic decline. Voter frustration over persistent poverty, high unemployment, rampant crime, power outages, and corruption led to a significant loss in votes for the ANC compared to the 2019 election.
“Our society remains deeply unequal and highly polarized,” Ramaphosa said. “We are divided between those who have jobs and those who do not, between those who can enjoy a comfortable life and those who cannot.”
The inauguration ceremony, attended by African heads of state and dignitaries from countries like Cuba, a longstanding ally of the ANC, was held at the Union Buildings in Pretoria. The event included interfaith prayers and a military flyover, showcasing the nation’s diversity and unity.
