Inauguration opens with prayer

The prayers were for a peaceful inauguration, and blessings for Zuma.

The prayers were for a peaceful inauguration, and blessings for Zuma.

Published May 24, 2014

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Pretoria - The inauguration ceremony for Jacob Zuma's second term of office began at around 11.30am at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Saturday.

The ceremony started with inter-faith prayers, and several male guests took off their hats as a sign of respect.

Zuma sat with his hands folded on his lap and his eyes closed as the various religious leaders prayed for him.

The prayers were for a peaceful inauguration, and blessings for Zuma.

The prayers were due to be followed by a recital of the Preamble to the Constitution of South Africa, before Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng swears in Zuma.

Zuma was due to take the oath of office before he signs the swearing-in certificate, followed by a congratulatory item by imbongi Zolani Mkiva.

Zuma will address the nation after taking the national salute as the SA Air Force executes a fly-past and the SA Defence Force performs a 21-gun salute.

After a rendition of the national anthem and a civilian fly-past by SA Airways, Zuma will address those on the south lawns. - Sapa

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