Pretoria - President Jacob Zuma made a brief appearance at the southern lawns, Union Buildings, just before 1pm to greet thousands of people who watched him took the oath of office on big screens.
He was accompanied by ANC leader in Gauteng and arts and culture minister Paul Mashatile and other senior ANC officials.
Zuma, who was well received by the people, said: “We know the amphitheatre is not big enough to accommodate all of you, but we thank you for coming and being with us as we take the oath for the next five years.
“In the last few weeks we were all over the country campaigning, and finally the people of the country made their choice emphatically and gave the ANC an opportunity to govern the country again for the next five years.
“Today we have taken the oath as mandated by the people. We are glad you came in full force.”
Zuma, speaking in Zulu and English, said the new administration would work towards changing lives of the people for be better.
“We won't be apologetic or scared. We will do what we promised to do during the pre-election campaign. We are happy you are here.
“This is your government. We have made a call for all to work together - together we will conquer and be more stronger to overcome the challenges we face as nation.”
Mashatile congratulated Zuma on his second term in the highest office.
“On behalf of all of you I wish him well for the next five years,” Mashatile told the crowd. - Pretoria News Weekend