‘We'll build a government that is capable and honest’ — South Africa's President Ramaphosa

President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa has pledged to build a government that is capable and honest in his inauguration speech for his second term as President.

Ramaphosa was sworn in on Wednesday, June 19, at the Union Buildings in Pretoria after being re-elected by the National Assembly earlier on June 14, to serve another five-year term.

In his wide-ranging inauguration address, Ramaphosa reiterated his commitment to addressing the many socio-economic challenges facing South Africans.

Ramaphosa acknowledged the complexity of the problems South Africa faces and stressed the need for unity in overcoming them.

“Today is no ordinary day. It is a moment of fundamental consequence in the life of our nation," he said.

The President said South Africans want a government that delivers quality public services and works effectively for citizens.

“They have demanded an end to the theft of public funds and the capture of the state," the President observed.

Ramaphosa said his administration will tackle issues like job creation, poverty, strengthening the state, improving education and healthcare.

"But at the core will be building trust in government through competence and integrity.

"Together, we will do more and better. We will build a government that is capable and honest," Ramaphosa vowed in his speech, which laid out his vision and plans for the next five years.