Dignitaries from across the world – including current and former Heads of State and Governments – are expected to attend the inauguration ceremony of President-elect Cyril Ramaphosa on Wednesday.
This according to a statement released by the Presidency on Tuesday.
“The ceremony will be witnessed by South African and international guests, including South African royalty, Members of Parliament, representatives of political parties, leaders of organised labour, business and civil society organisations, religious leaders and South Africans who have excelled in various capacities and endeavours.
“Attendees will include representatives of regional, continental and international organisations. And bodies such as the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Union (AU). As well as the United Nations (UN),” the statement read.
18 Heads of states and Governments
The Presidency said at least 18 Heads of State and Government are expected to attend. As well as three former Heads of State and Government and nine Heads of Delegation.
Additional confirmations are being received.
“Countries that will be represented at a high level at the inauguration include the Kingdom of eSwatini and Kingdom of Lesotho. The Republics of Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Namibia, Angola and Tanzania. The Republic of Uganda, the People’s Republic of China and the Arab Republic of Egypt. The State of Palestine and the Republic of Cuba,” the Presidency said.
The President-elect held a walkabout at the venue on Tuesday afternoon to assess the state of readiness.
Park-and-ride available
Members of the public are encouraged to use the park-and-ride at Tshwane Showgrounds. People can park their cars and take a free bus to the Union Buildings.
The programme for the day will commence with a cultural programme for members of the public. This will be on the South Lawns of the Union Buildings at 9am.
Formal proceedings will get underway at 11am.
Meanwhile, the Presidency has reminded members of the public that Wednesday, 19 June – – is a normal working day.
Normal working day, not a holiday
The inauguration of President-elect Cyril Ramaphosa will take place at the Union Buildings in Pretoria. This is following his re-election by Parliament on Friday, 14 June 2024.
The swearing in of the President-elect will be conducted by Chief Justice Raymond Zondo. This will be in the Union Buildings’ Nelson Mandela Amphitheatre. -SAnews.gov.za
