Political parties express mixed views on Ramaphosa’s key submissions to South Africans

JOHANNESBURG - Political parties have expressed mixed views on President Cyril Ramaphosa’s key submissions to South Africans as he begins his final term in public office.

On Wednesday, Ramaphosa was sworn in as head of state during his inauguration ceremony at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.

READ: Ramaphosa: New tide in SA must be welcomed with hope and optimism

During his speech, the president made a call to all parties in the Government of National Unity to put their policy differences aside to deliver basic services to South Africans.

However, some political organisations believe Ramaphosa still needs to take the nation into confidence that the 7th administration will get the basics right.

The Democratic Alliance (DA), which is no longer an opposition party in parliament, fermented itself over the years as the African National Congress’s (ANC) government political watchdog.

But the party’s confidence in President Cyril Ramaphosa has seemingly grown since it officially joined the government unity last week.

DA Chief Whip Siviwe Gwarube says Ramaphosa has managed to outline how the next five years will look under a unity government.

 "I’ve been the president did a solid job in articulating what the gnu is and what it seeks to do and I thought it was commendable that he was quite honest."

But the United Democratic Movement’s (UDM) Yongama Zigebe begs to differ.

"We have been sold hope each and everytime the president takes the podium to the point where one would not be looking forward to his speeches."

Ramaphosa however says he’ll ensure the Government of National Unity is not riddled by political turmoil.