'Our people have spoken, whether we like it or not' - Ramaphosa

MIDRAND - President Cyril Ramaphosa has moved to console political parties that didn't perform at their best in last week’s elections, as disputes over the results persist.

Ramaphosa's party, the African National Congress (ANC), was the biggest loser of these elections after failing to hold on to its majority status for the first time since 1994.

He addressed delegates at the IEC's national results operation centre in Midrand on Sunday night.

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Ramaphosa made his first appearance at the results ceremony on Sunday since leading the ANC in its disastrous attempt to hold onto power.

The ANC narrowly missed dipping below the 30% mark, making this its biggest loss ever.

In his opening remarks, Ramaphosa joked about the outcomes.

"I'd like the Chief Justice to close his ears in case there's another court challenge about what I'm about to say. How I wish the mistake you made about this being the 29th election results was true."

Ramaphosa conceded to the defeat, calling on other parties to also swallow the bitter pill.

"Our people have spoken, whether we like it or not."

Ramaphosa said that the new administration would be a true test for the country’s political maturity.