South Africa’s President Jacob Zuma has been sworn into office for a second term, following his party’s victory at the polls.

 

Jacob Zuma takes the oath during the ceremony at Union Buildings in Pretoria

The African National Congress (ANC) won a commanding victory in the general election on 7 May.

More than 4,000 guests and several heads of state are at the ceremony in Pretoria.

Neither the US or UK are sending a representative but officials from Russia, China and India are attending.

President Zuma was officially elected for a second five-year term on Wednesday by the ANC-dominated parliament.

The expected formality of the re-election was disturbed only by MPs from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), who turned up at parliament in red overalls and hardhats.

The EFF, led by former ANC member Julius Malema, said they dressed as maids and miners to show they intend to represent the interest of workers.

South African media say Saturday’s inauguration ceremony is as much about celebrating Nelson Mandela, who died last year, and 20 years of democracy, as about officially sealing Mr Zuma’s re-election.

Mr Zuma took the oath of office after prayers opened the ceremony at 11:00 local time (09:00 GMT).

Several heads of state are in attendance, including Zimbabwe’s Robert Mugabe, Nigeria’s Goodluck Jonathan, and Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni.

BBC