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Nelson Mandela is sworn in as South Africa's first Black president

The president of South Africa is the head of state and head of government of the Republic of South Africa.

The president of South Africa is the head of state and head of government of the Republic of South Africa. The president directs the executive branch of the government and is the commander-in-chief of the South African National Defence Force. Between 1961 and 1994, the office of head of state was the state presidency.

The president is elected by the National Assembly, the lower house of Parliament, and is usually the leader of the largest party, which has been the African National Congress since the first multiracial election was held on 27 April 1994. The Constitution limits the president's time in office to two five-year terms. The first president to be elected under the new constitution was Nelson Mandela.

Historical Significance

The president of South Africa is the head of state and head of government of the Republic of South Africa.

Key People

Nelson Mandela

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  3. Brian Lara scores his maiden Test century with 277 for the West Indies v Australia in drawn 3rd Test at the Sydney Crick

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  5. American actress Julia Roberts (27) and American singer-songwriter Lyle Lovett (37) divorce after less than 2 years of m

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Frequently Asked Questions

What happened on May 10, 1994?
The president of South Africa is the head of state and head of government of the Republic of South Africa. The president directs the executive branch of the government and is the commander-in-chief of the South African National Defence Force. Between 1961 and 1994, the office of head of state was the state presidency.
Why is Nelson Mandela is sworn in as South Africa's first Black president significant?
The president of South Africa is the head of state and head of government of the Republic of South Africa.
Who was involved in Nelson Mandela is sworn in as South Africa's first Black president?
Key figures include Nelson Mandela.

Explore More

May 10 in HistoryYear 1994