Steenhuisen: When people speak, politicians have to listen
DA leader John Steenhuisen on Wednesday reiterated that the new government of national unity must collaborate for the benefit of South Africans.
Speaking on the sidelines of Cyril Ramaphosa's inauguration as president, Steenhuisen said the formation of this government confirms democracy is functioning.
He said voters have clearly mandated parties to work together to form a stable government and enhance the economy.
“When the people speak, the politicians have to listen. They are going to have to, to ensure we are able to govern in a way that gets our economy moving forward.
“We have chosen to participate in this because I think we bring enormous experience in being able to get economies moving, and building South Africa moving forward.”
Ramaphosa will be officially inaugurated for a new five-year term before MPs, foreign dignitaries, religious and traditional leaders and others at the Union Buildings, the seat of government.
The presidency said at least 18 heads of state and government, many from other African countries are to attend.
Ramaphosa will be sworn in by the head of the Constitutional Court, Chief Justice Raymond Zondo, and then deliver an inaugural address.
The ANC won only 40 percent of the vote during the recent general elections -- down from 57.5 percent five years earlier.
For the first time since the advent of democracy in 1994, it lost its absolute majority in parliament and was left scrambling to find coalition partners to remain in power.
It has since agreed to form what it calls a national unity government with several other parties.
They include the Democratic Alliance, the Inkatha Freedom Party, the Patriotic Alliance and the GOOD party.
*Additional reporting by AFP
