Ramaphosa: SA challenges real but not insurmountable
President Cyril Ramaphosa says South Africa is facing real challenges that will require courage and determination to address.
He was speaking at the Loftus Versfeld after taking his oath of office as a democratically elected president of South Africa.
Amongst many dignitaries attending were current and former African heads of state, including former president FW De Klerk, Thabo Mbeki, Kgalema Motlanthe and former deputy president Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka.
Former president Jacob Zuma elected to attend the ceremony.
"In recent times, our people have watched as some of those in whom they had invested their trust have surrendered to the temptation of power and riches. They have seen some of the very institutions of our democracy eroded and resources squandered. The challenges we face are real but they are not insurmountable, they can be solved and we are going to solve them.
Ramaphosa, who is currently the only member of the executive until he appoints a cabinet, reminded the thousands of South Africans in the stadium, that he is determined to ensure there is leadership with integrity.
"Let us forge a compact for an efficient, capable and ethical state, a state that is free from corruption, for companies that generate social value and propel human development, for elected officials and public servants who faithfully serve no other cause than that of the public.”
