STORY: The sun hadn't even risen, and crowds were gathering in South Africa's capital Pretoria on Wednesday (June 19).

They're here to celebrate the inauguration of President Cyril Ramaphosa.

He's held onto the presidency despite his African National Congress losing its majority for the first time in the three decades since the end of apartheid.

ANC supporter Thandabantu Magwaba said it was important to be there.

"... so that I can witness, yes...the 30 years of freedom, and again I can witness the president sitting in that seat again for term two."

Despite the ANC being punished by voters, Ramaphosa's re-election signals a continuity of leadership during what is a changing political landscape.

The ANC is now in a coalition government of five parties - so far - including the pro-business Democratic Alliance, seen as a party of white privilege.

In the days following his inauguration Ramaphosa is expected to announce the composition of his new cabinet.

It will likely undergo a major overhaul after negotiations between the parties now in government.

Key ministries such as finance, energy, foreign affairs and public enterprises are among the most coveted portfolios.