The peaceful transfer of power from one administration to the next has defined our democracy since 1994. This moment is a culmination of a number of things but is symbolised most notably by the Presidential Inauguration. By affirming the oath of office, the incoming President begins a new term of government and swears to work for our country and her people.
On 19 June 2024, against the backdrop of the historic Union Buildings and with the eyes of the nation, the continent and the world upon him, President Cyril Ramaphosa took the oath of office with the words: I, Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, swear that I will be faithful to the Republic of South Africa and will obey, observe, uphold and maintain the Constitution and all other law of the Republic.
These words signalled the start of his second term as President, and the beginning of the seventh administration of a democratic South Africa. The symbolism of the inauguration is important as it represents the beginning of a new chapter and signals to the world that our democracy remains strong.
This inauguration was also the first since 1994 where the President addressed the nation with no one party having a clear majority. “The voters of South Africa did not give any single party the full mandate to govern our country alone. They have directed us to work together to address their plight and realise their aspirations,” he said.
These words by President Cyril Ramaphosa are a potent reminder that our nation has always been at its strongest when we are united in a common purpose. Time after time during the past 30 Years of Freedom, we have shown that our unity remains our greatest strength.
As we look towards the seventh administration, we will as always be guided by our Constitution and democratic principles. The road to the establishment of the seventh democratic parliament begins with the Opening of Parliament Address, which will take place at the first joint sitting of the National Assembly and National Council of Provinces. The address is delivered by the President of the Republic and occurs once every five years after an election.
President Cyril Ramaphosa will address the Opening of Parliament on 18 July 2024 and will use this occasion to outline the priorities of the 7th Administration. Fittingly, the Opening of Parliament Address will coincide with the United Nations-declared Nelson Mandela International Day, which is celebrated annually to mark the birthday of the founding President of a democratic South Africa.
The Opening of Parliament Address is more than a ceremonial occasion; it is a platform where the President will detail government’s vision and priorities to the nation. Importantly, it sets the tone for the legislative and administrative actions to follow as we begin the hard work to further advance our nation. It also symbolises the functioning of the new parliament, reflecting the continuity and stability of governance.
Continuity and stability has been the hallmark of our democracy since 1994, with each successive administration building on the work of the one before. The incoming administration will be guided by existing plans such as the National Development Plan, as well as agreed upon Government of National Unity (GNU) priorities anchored by respect for the Constitution, the Bill of Rights in its entirety, a united South Africa and the rule of law.
The seventh administration, like the ones before it will continue to work to ensure a better tomorrow for all, however we cannot do it alone. We call on all South Africans to join us as we chart a new path. Let us work together and continue to build a society that is truly reflective of the will of the people.
*Nomonde Mnukwa is Acting Director-General of the GCIS
