Cyril Ramaphosa has been re-elected as President of South Africa, receiving congratulations from world leaders.
The African National Congress (ANC) leader was elected during the first sitting of the National Assembly at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) on Friday, June 14.
Ramaphosa was nominated alongside Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema, receiving 283 votes to Malema’s 44.
A total of 12 votes were spoiled in the election.
Ramaphosa’s re-election follows in the footsteps of Thabo Mbeki and Jacob Zuma, who also served two terms as President.
However, Mbeki and Zuma did not complete their terms, as they were recalled before finishing their tenures.
In his victory speech, Ramaphosa thanked MPs and accepted the challenge of the next five years.
He expressed his humility and honor at being elected President of the Republic of South Africa.
READ ALSO:
Ramaphosa Secures Second Term: Landslide Victory in South African Presidential Election
Niger’s Supreme Court Removes Immunity of Ousted President Mohamed Bazoum
Cholera Outbreak Claims 15 Lives in Lagos State, 350 Suspected Cases Confirmed
Ramaphosa also acknowledged the privilege and pleasure of serving the nation as President.
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu congratulated Ramaphosa on his re-election, extending his congratulations to the people of South Africa on the peaceful conduct of the election.
Tinubu called for strengthened bilateral ties between Nigeria and South Africa as strategic partners in Africa.
US President Joe Biden also congratulated Ramaphosa, commending the political parties for working together to form a Government of National Unity.
Biden sent warm wishes to the people of South Africa, marking 30 years of democracy in 2024.
Chinese President Xi Jinping congratulated Ramaphosa, noting the profound political mutual trust and fruitful practical cooperation between China and South Africa.
Russian President Vladimir Putin appreciated Ramaphosa’s personal contribution to developing strategic partnership relations between their countries.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy wished Ramaphosa continued success, expressing interest in advancing mutually beneficial bilateral cooperation.
Ramaphosa will be inaugurated on July 19, 2024, at the Union Buildings in Tshwane. The ceremony will be presided over by the Chief Justice, who will administer the oath of office to the President-elect.
