(CNN) -- Longtime women's rights activist and Malawian Vice President Joyce Banda took charge of her homeland Saturday, ending two days of political intrigue after the death of President Bingu wa Mutharika. Supporters cheered and danced as she was sworn in at a ceremony in the capital, Lilongwe, as Malawi's first female president. "You have come to witness this occasion from all walks of life regardless of tribe, religion or political affiliation," she said. "I want all of us to move into the future with hope and with that spirit of oneness and unity." Banda's ascension was contentious even though under the terms of Malawi's constitution, the vice president was in line for the highest office in the land. However, Banda's falling out with the ruling party had raised fears over a potential succession struggle.
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NEW: Joyce Banda is known for her efforts at women's empowerment
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She appeals for calm and says the focus should be on the president's funeral
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President Bingu wa Mutharika died after a heart attack Thursday
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Some express hope that his passing will help bring change
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