• “South Africa must come first in everything that we do.”

Cyril Ramaphosa has taken over from Jacob Zuma as the President of South Africa.

This followed his selection on Thursday by the country’s lawmakers after the resignation of Zuma on Wednesday.

Zuma had been in a power struggle with Ramaphosa, his deputy president.

Ramaphosa emerged without the casting of votes as he was the only candidate nominated, Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng told assembled lawmakers at a special sitting of the parliament in Cape Town..

Cyril Ramaphosa took over the mantle of leadership of South Africa on Thursday declaring that the interest of the country must come first.

“South Africa must come first in everything that we do,” he declared.

He said that as the president of the country, he had become a servant and promised to discharge his work with humility.

He said it was no time to be frivolous, but to tackle the main issues affecting the country.

He expressed interest in the need to ensure patriotism and fight corruption among other issues.

The new president said the people of South Africa must come together and tackle their common problems without having to shout at one another.

He expressed appreciation to the lawmaker for giving him the opportunity to serve, promising to always be in contact with them.

Said he:  “I will do all these as a servant of our people. Once one is elected as president, you become a servant.

“I will seek to do that task with humility and faithfulness.

“Many of the lawmakers have spoken about unity and how to work for our people. I will adopt and accept the advice.

“We have to work together on how to improve the lives of our people rather than grandstanding.

“Issue of corruption, strengthening state enterprises are issues that we will be addressing. Also issue of patriotism.

“South Africa must come first in everything that we do.”