1994 – South Africa Swears in First Multiracial Cabinet

On May 29, 1994, Nelson Mandela’s newly elected government officially swore in South Africa’s first multiracial cabinet, ending centuries of racial exclusion. This historic day followed the country’s first democratic elections in April, where citizens of all races voted together for the first time. The new cabinet included leaders from the African National Congress (ANC), National Party, and Inkatha Freedom Party, symbolizing a fragile yet hopeful unity. Mandela appointed figures like Thabo Mbeki and Joe Slovo, ensuring representation of diverse political ideologies. This inclusive government began dismantling apartheid\’s legacy and instituting policies aimed at racial reconciliation, economic justice, and national healing. May 29 marked a turning point not only for South Africa but also for the global movement for racial equity. The event stands as a powerful lesson in political transformation, peacebuilding, and the possibility of shared governance after centuries of systemic oppression.