30 years ago, Mandela was sworn in as SA’s first democratically elected president
On this day 30 years ago, Mandela ascended to the country’s highest office as its first citizen following 46 years of the apartheid regime.
Former South African President Nelson Mandela takes the oath 10 May 1994 during his inauguration at the Union Building in Pretoria. Picture: AFP
JOHANNESBURG - On this day 30 years ago, the country's first democratically elected president, Nelson Mandela, was sworn into the Union Buildings following 46 years of an oppressive apartheid regime.
In April 1994, the African National Congress (ANC), led by Mandela, won South Africa's first democratic elections.
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The former statesman and global icon served from 1994 to 1999 as the country's first black head of state.
Ushering in democracy through his inaugural speech, Mandela ignited hope for millions of South Africans who could finally envision a future free of poverty, inequality and unemployment.
“Let there be justice for all, let there be peace for all, let there be work, bread, water and salt for all.”
His words would mirror his actions for decades, demonstrating his commitment to the liberation of those who suffered dehumanising laws during the brutal apartheid regime.
In 18 days, nearly 28 million South Africans registered to vote will have an opportunity to exercise their hard-won democratic right with similar hopes.