Congratulating President Thabo Mbeki on his inauguration for a second term as president, Leon said the challenges of the past decade remained the challenges of the future.
"We can look back on ten years of democracy with strong feelings of pride," he said.
"Equally, we can look ahead to the next ten years with a powerful sense of hope.
"However, the challenges of the past decade will remain the challenges of the future." He said it was essential that a "vigorous and healthy debate" be maintained in the country as everybody worked to overcome the obstacles.
"The mark of a thriving society is its ability to nurture independence of thought, to encourage innovation, and to cultivate diversity.
"Not just diversity of origin - colour, culture, class, etc - but a diversity of ideas, inventions, and achievements." Leon said Mbeki deserved the support of everyone.
"He (Mbeki) faces huge challenges, and he deserves the support of everyone when he tackles these challenges on behalf of everyone." - Sapa
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