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Jacob Zuma Sworn In as South African Prez

ANC chief promises to fix economy, work for racial reconciliation

By Rob Quinn, Newser Staff

Posted May 9, 2009 7:47 AM CDT

(Newser) – Jacob Zuma was sworn in as South Africa's new president in front of thousands of supporters in Pretoria today, the BBC reports. The African National Congress leader, whose election victory capped a huge comeback after accusations of rape and corruption dogged him for years, said today marks a "moment of renewal" for the country.

Zuma pledged to continue the work his predecessors Nelson Mandela and Thabo Mbeki, both in attendance, had done towards racial conciliation. Thousands of high-spirited Zuma supporters had gathered in the capital from before dawn. "We are rejoicing. He's the people's leader," one said. "He knows the poor of this country." Torrential rain preceded the ceremony, an auspicious sign in Zulu culture.

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A man holds South African flags at the Union Building before South African President Jacob Zuma's swearing in ceremony in Pretoria, South Africa, Saturday, May 9, 2009. Jacob Zuma took the presidential... (AP Photo/Schalk van Zuydam)

Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi, gestures, as he arrives for the South Africa's President Jacob Zuma's inauguration, at Union Building in Pretoria, South Africa, Saturday May 9, 2009. (AP Photo/Themba Hadebe, Pool)

South Africa's President Jacob Zuma speaks during his inaugural speech at Union Building in Pretoria, South Africa, Saturday May 9, 2009. (AP Photo/ Themba Hadebe POOL)

Workers prepare the Union Building for Jacob Zuma's swearing-in ceremony in Pretoria, South Africa. (AP Photo/Schalk van Zuydam)

Jacob Zuma is sworn in as South Africa's president. (BBC video)

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA - APRIL 23: Supporters cheer at a celebration for African National Congress presidential favorite Jacob Zuma April 23, 2009 in Johannesburg, South Africa. With most of the... (Getty Images)

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA - APRIL 23: African National Congress leader and presidential favotite Jacob Zuma dances on stage during an ANC victory celebration April 23, 2009 in Johannesburg, South Africa.... (Getty Images)

Former South African President Nelson Mandela reacts following the swearing in ceremony for new President Jacob Zuma, unseen, at Union Building in Pretoria, South Africa, Saturday May 9, 2009. (AP Photo/ Themba Hadebe POOL)

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I commit myself to the service of our nation with dedication, commitment, discipline, integrity, hard work and passion. - South African President Jacob Zuma

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Jacob Zuma Sworn In as South African Prez