Mpho Koka
“Changes will come,” promised Ramaphosa.
In his presidential speech after being sworn in as President of South Africa (SA), Ramaphosa expressed a desire to end poverty, corruption and inequality.
“It is our shared will and responsibility, to build a society that knows neither privilege nor disadvantage. Let us declare our shared determination that we shall end poverty in South Africa within a generation. Every school child will be able to read and every person who wants to work will have a reasonable opportunity to find employment,” he said.
He added that: “In recent times, our people have watched as some of those in whom they had invested their trust have surrendered to the temptation of power and riches. They have seen some of the very institutions of our democracy eroded and resources squandered.
Let us forge a compact for an efficient, capable and ethical state, a state that is free from corruption for companies that generate social value and propel human development, for elected officials and public servants who faithfully serve no other cause than that of the public.”
In addition, president Ramaphosa spoke about ending inequality. “Let us end the dominion that men claim over women, the denial of opportunity, the abuse and the violence, the neglect and the disregard of each person’s equal rights. Let us build a truly non-racial society, one that belongs to all South Africans and in which all South Africans belong.
A society where disability is no impediment, where there is tolerance and where no person is judged on their sexual orientation, where no person suffers prejudice because of the colour of their skin, the language of their birth or their country of origin,” he added.
Meanwhile, students on the Potchefstroom campus of the North-West University (NWU) had a few things to say about Ramaphosa’s speech.
Mpendulo Ntshangase (24), a student studying BSc in Physics and Chemistry, said: “Ramaphosa’s speech was too vague for me. He didn’t mention any tangible plans to bring about what he said he would.”
However, Legohu Molepo (22), student studying BCom Economics & International Trade, said: “The president’s speech was okay for me. He emphasised the importance for us as South Africans to assist each other during these hard economic times we are facing. He basically spoke about all of us as citizens envisioning a South Africa that reflects a non-racial society.”
Similarly, Bianca Fourie (19), studying chemical engineering, said: "Ramaphosa gave a good speech. I am quite impressed. He spoke well and said all the right things. I am quite confident that he will take our beautiful country forward in the right direction."
The president promised action and a better future for South Africa.
“Today is the choice of history. It is time for us to make the future we yearn for. It is through our actions now that we will determine our future. South Africans want action and not just words and promises. And there will be action,” he said.
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