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The South African Democratic Teachers’ Union (SADTU) joins millions of patriotic and peace loving South Africans in congratulating  Comrade Cyril Ramaphosa on his election as president of the country.

Cde Ramaphosa’s appointment marks the dawn of a new era for South Africa; an era we hope will bring about unity, firm and decisive leadership in dealing with corruption, economic growth and lead the country towards a prosperous trajectory.

Cde Ramaphosa’s election as president did not come on a silver platter. We can fully attest to the fact that he earned it. An activist in his student days, Ramaphosa progressed to become the leader of one of South Africa’s most powerful union, the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM).

He played a pivotal role in shaping and driving our country into our new democracy as the key negotiator during CODESA negotiations and in the drafting of our constitution that is touted as the best in the world.

His tenure will not be a walk in the park as he takes over the reins in a country facing high unemployment rate, joblessness, corruption and moral decay in the midst of a tough economic climate.

However, in the midst of such conditions, we have no doubt that Cde Ramaphosa will take this country to greater heights. As SADTU we give President Ramaphosa and the ANC our unconditional support in ensuring that they work towards making South Africa a better country for all.

The 54th Conference of the ANC heeded our call  since 2015 COSATU Congress that unity and cohesion of the ANC can be achieved if Comrade Ramaphosa as the deputy then was elected as the ANC president  based on its traditions and practices. We are convinced that President Ramaphosa will work hard to unite the Alliance and the people of our country.

That he will not allow darkness to kill the democracy that we fought for. That under his leadership the ANC leagues and associations will focus their energy towards working for the people of South Africa.

Issued by SADTU