President Cyril Ramaphosa has been sworn in for a second term as President, his first as head of a Government of National Unity (GNU).
His speech emphasised the constitutional values of social justice and non-racialism. He also referenced Nelson Mandela’s speech, which was the genesis of the idea of a Long Walk to Freedom. Here’s the quote:
“We dare not linger, dare not rest, until we have created jobs for those who need them; until there is enough food on every table.
“Until every person in every town, city, village and farm receives the basic services they need for a decent life.
“We dare not rest until the women of South Africa are free from the social, cultural and economic constraints that hold back their progress.”
Firm words for MK party’s Jacob Zuma, without actually naming him
President Ramaphosa’s inaugural speech had firm words for the MK party, which has taken up the role of spoiler, from election to inauguration day.
MK was the surprise of the election, winning a percentage vote that drove the ANC down to 40%, becoming the largest party in KwaZulu-Natal. The party has not formed a government in the province after an ANC, DA, IFP and NFP pact put in place a different coalition. Here’s the quote:
“Those who seek to stand in our way, those who seek to inflame tensions, will not succeed, because South Africans are resolute.
“Those who seek to undermine our institutions will fail, because democracy lives in the hearts of our people and will never be dislodged.”
3. GNU still open for participation by more parties
The inauguration speech made it clear that Ramaphosa wants to build as big a governing front as possible. This means that more parties can be invited to be a part of it. Queenin Masuabi reported on the DM blog that the FF+ will be joining. On 18 June, Helen Zille on Newzroom Afrika objected to the PA becoming a part of the GNU without the DA being consulted. This is likely to become an issue as the unity government is expanded. Here’s the speech quote:
“The voters of South Africa did not give any single party the full mandate to govern our country alone. As leaders, as political parties, we are called upon to work in partnership towards a growing economy, better jobs…
“Understanding that no party can govern alone and make laws alone, these parties have agreed to work in partnership, to employ their talents for the good of the country and the progress of its people.
The formation of a government of national unity is a moment of profound significance. It is the beginning of a new era.”
The rand soars as markets bet on GNUphoria
The rand maintained its recent rally, smashing past the 18/dlr mark on Wednesday to over 10-month highs as President Cyril Ramaphosa was inaugurated again. The markets are clearly betting on a new economic course under the GNU, writes Daily Maverick’s Ed Stoddard.
@Daily Maverick
