Biden sworn in as America’s 46th president, preaches unity
U.S. President Joe Biden and Vice-President Kamala Harris were on Wednesday, sworn in at the inauguration ceremony in Washington DC.
Prior to the 46th president’s swearing in, Ms. Harris, using a bible, was sworn in as vice president by Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor.
Ms. Harris is the first female vice president.
Mr. Biden, the oldest president to take the oath of office in the history of the US was led by the Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts.
In strict adherence to COVID-19 guidelines, not much guests were present, but the ceremony had in attendance the former presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush and Bill Clinton.
In his 21 minutes long inaugural speech, 78-year-old Mr. Biden honoured citizens who died as a result of COVID-19, saying “few people in our nation’s history have been more challenged or found a time more challenging or difficult than the time we’re in now.
“To overcome these challenges, to restore the soul and secure the future of America, requires so much more than words and requires the most elusive of all things in a democracy: unity.”
Mr. Biden who describes himself as “president for all Americans,” maintained that unity is the only vehicle that will move the country forward.
“I know speaking of unity can sound to some like a foolish fantasy these days. I know the forces that divide us are deep and they are real. I also know they are not new,” he said.
After the president’s speech, Garth Brooks sang “Amazing Grace.”
Outgone president Donald Trump made good his promise as he snubbed the inauguration event, becoming the first American president not to attend the inauguration of his successor since 1869.
Highlight of the event was an electrifying music performance by Jennifer Lopez who sang “This land is your land, this land is my land…”
The national anthem was sung by Lady Gaga.
The ceremony also featured musical performances by other top-notch singers in the country.
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