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Opening of Parliament Address: A moment of hope and celebration
Tonight’s Opening of Parliament Address (OPA), to be delivered by President Cyril Ramaphosa, bears significance not only for the seventh administration, but also for the celebration of 30 years of democracy in South Africa.
This according to Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Nonceba Mhlauli.
The Deputy Minister was speaking to SAnews on the side lines of a commemoration marking Mandela Day, at Nyanga, in the Western Cape.
“It’s significant in a few ways. Firstly, it’s the first address of the administration 30 years into democracy. A lot of countries that have gone through the kind of transition that we have gone through seldom get to a point of having stable elections that are free and fair, and non-violent, 30 years into the democratic dispensation. That’s one thing to celebrate.
“South Africa is a much a better country than it was 30 years ago. Of course we still have challenges but we continue to work with our people,” Mhlauli said.
The Deputy Minister said OPA is a key marker for the seventh administration, which is made up of different political parties in the Government of National Unity.
“Today is going to be the first address of the President in another milestone in our country under a Government of National Unity which is the first of its kind comprising [different] political parties.
“A lot of people said it’s not going to be possible that there will be instability and here we are today; looking forward to hearing the message the President is going to put forward for the next five years ahead,” she said.
Also at the Mandela Day commemoration, Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong, told SAnews that he expects President Ramaphosa to reflect on the work that has been done by government over the past 30 years of democracy and how government will build upon that platform.
“I think the President’s speech will be predicated on the strides that we’ve made in the last 30 years. With the establishment of the Government of National Unity, the President will speak to the key priorities that this government would want to focus on… [like] inclusive growth and job creation.
“We obviously want all South Africans to tune in today… as the President addresses the nation and we hope that they will be able to relate to the message that will be delivered by the President of the Republic,” Morolong said.
The Opening of Parliament Address is expected to commence at 7pm tonight, the same day the country and the world commemorate Nelson Mandela International Day. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 07/18/2024 - 13:43
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Train commuters receive blankets on Mandela Day
Christmas came early for train commuters at the Cape Town train station this morning, when Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni handed over blankets to them.
One of those who received a blanket was Bulelani Fumbeza from Keisriver, who told SAnews he was happy to have received this special gift on Mandela Day.
“I am happy to receive the blanket on Madiba’s birthday and on a cold day like today. I am going to use the blanket to warm myself while watching the OPA [Opening of Parliament Address] this evening,” said a beaming Fumbeza.
He added that he will never forgot that he received a gift on Madiba’s birthday.
Echoing the same sentiments was Andile Mchunu who lives on the streets of Cape Town.
“I will forever be grateful for this gift, and I will never forget Madiba’s birthday. I wish our new government could do more and provide us with jobs and houses,” Mchunu said.
The distribution of the blankets came as the world today commemorates Mandela Day and the day in which President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) at 7pm.
Ntshavheni was accompanied by Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong, Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina and Transport Minister Barbara Creecy.
Minister Ntshavheni used the opportunity to encourage commuters and members of the public to tune in to the OPA, which will take place at the Cape Town City Hall.
“We encourage South Africans to watch the President opening Parliament for the seventh administration this evening,” Ntshavheni said on Thursday.
Turning her attention to the youth, the Minister encouraged young people not only to watch the address, but to also visit the City Hall chambers to learn more about former President Nelson Mandela.
The Ministers and the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) officials visited the station to raise awareness about the OPA, amongst others.
The Cape Town station - which is used by many commuters, especially during peak hours - was chosen as it is the main station in Cape Town and because of its proximity to the City Hall.
Also as part of this morning’s activation, the Ministers joined the Transport Minister Barbara Creecy and PRASA officials in the unveiling of the 30 years of democracy branded train. This as the country commemorates 30 years of freedom and democracy.
After the unveiling of the Democracy Train, the Ministers embarked on a walkabout at the station.
2024 marks the 30th anniversary of the birth of South Africa's democratic government, a milestone that Nelson Mandela was instrumental in achieving. Globally, he became the symbol of freedom and democracy.
For the 67 years that he spent in prison, fighting for the freedom of South Africa, the government calls upon everyone to spend at least 67 minutes doing something that will have a positive impact and bring lasting change to the lives of those in our communities. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 07/18/2024 - 11:32
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Security measures in place for Opening of Parliament Address
The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) is satisfied with the security measures that have been put in place for the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) this evening.
“Just like many other major events that have taken place without disruptions nor incidents in the City of Cape Town this year alone, the NATJOINTS is confident that the OPA will take place in a safe and secure environment,” spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said.
The NATJOINTS is responsible for coordinating all security and law enforcement operations throughout the country and is led by the South African Police Service (SAPS), State Security Agency (SSA) and South African National Defence Force (SANDF).
The NATJOINTS has this year alone successfully policed a number of major events, including the 2024 National and Provincial Elections (NPE), the first sitting of the National Assembly and Provincial Legislatures, as well as the Presidential Inauguration, among others.
Mathe said throughout the policing of all these events, stability prevailed throughout the country and no major incidents and no disruptions were reported.
“This as a direct result of the competence and capabilities of the country’s law enforcement agencies coordinated and led by the NATJOINTS.”
She emphasised that only people who are accredited and authorised to be around the City Hall will be allowed in and around the venue.
Mathe also warned members of the public against committing any illegal acts, as law enforcement agencies will not hesitate to act against anyone who conducts themselves in an unlawful manner.
“Any threats or disruptions will be dealt with decisively within the ambit of the law. Those who wish to protest, are urged to do so peacefully and must at all times consider the applicable laws of the country. To this end, high density operations under Operation Shanela are continuing through increased roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints, high police visibility on foot, vehicle, mounted and air patrols will be conducted.”
She said stabilising operations and the deployment of members at crime hotspots to ensure heightened integrated crime prevention operations, are also underway.
A notice to all Airmen (NOTAM) has also been issued by the Civil Aviation Authority which restricts the airspace within five nautical miles and twelve thousand feet above sea level to the Cape Town City Hall.
Mathe also advised all flyers operating drones that the area is a strictly no drone zone.
“Those who are found to be operating drones in the vicinity will be in breach of the restriction imposed by the Central Airspace management. Transgressors will be dealt with.”
She added that road closures have been put in place and are being communicated accordingly.
READ | Several roads closed in city centre for the opening of Parliament
“The NATJOINTS co-chairs affirm the NATJOINTS state of readiness. Law enforcement agencies are already on the ground and are ready to deliver a safe and secure event,” Mathe said.
READ | All eyes on SA's First Citizen
Mathe expressed gratitude to the residents of Cape Town for their warm reception and cooperation, and requested the continued cooperation of all dignitaries, including the attendees and participants attending the 2024 OPA.
President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the OPA at 7pm. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 07/18/2024 - 09:57
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All eyes on SA's First Citizen
Many South Africans are expected to be glued to their screens this evening, 18 July 2024, as they eagerly wait to hear from President Cyril Ramaphosa, when he delivers the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) at 7pm.
As South Africa struggles with rising fuel and food prices, youth unemployment, crime and corruption, amongst others, many citizens are seeking hope and will be looking to President Ramaphosa’s speech for much-needed optimism as he leads the country under the Government of National Unity (GNU) banner.
President Ramaphosa was re-elected for a second term last month at the first sitting of the National Assembly since the highly contested elections of 29 May.
He received 283 votes, while the leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters, Julius Malema, received 44 votes for the top job.
The Speaker of Parliament, Thoko Didiza, has described the OPA ceremony as a historic event and said that the opening of Parliament reaffirms the government’s commitment to constitutional democracy.
“It serves as a powerful symbol for our nation’s ability to overcome adversity and continue the important work of governance,” Didiza said at a media briefing on Thursday to outline Parliament's state of readiness for the big event today, expected to showcase all the colourful and elegantly put together ceremonial aspects, befitting the Opening of Parliament.
Key areas
Speaking to SAnews, University of South Africa (Unisa) political analyst, Professor Dirk Kotze, said he expected the President's speech to focus on the economy.
“The issues he emphasised in the past will continue; the economic recovery plan, I suspect will still be the basis of his focus and [the] employment matter - how to create employment.”
Kotze also believes that the President will address infrastructure matters, foreign investments, and issues regarding electricity and water.
“I think the matter that is an overarching issue is how to deal with the fiscal issue and how there’s a reduction of the budgets in all of the different departments and how to try to improve the fiscal situation as a whole,” he told SAnews.
According to Kotze, the President’s speech usually covers almost all the departments, and that people can expect the same from the OPA.
He will also reaffirm the government's commitment to the fundamental principles of multilateralism, non-partisanship, and democracy, said the analyst.
“He should also create an environment which will make the GNU attractive for South Africans and the international community. I don’t know how exactly he’s going to do it, but he will have to build trust in the new government.”
Kotze also suspects that President Ramaphosa will address the GNU, discussing what they have already agreed upon, how it should function, and how Cabinet should operate.
“I think that will be the important part of the speech,” he explained.
The road to OPA
The Opening of Parliament signifies the formal start of the parliamentary year and is usually marked by grandeur, ceremony, and glamorous fashion that sparks conversation.
However, it is more than just that; but a significant ceremony where the Head of State outlines the government’s agenda, priorities, and policies during a joint sitting of the newly constituted two Houses of Parliament to deliver the OPA of the seventh administration.
The OPA occurs once every five years, following the Provincial and National Elections. It outlines the new administration’s plans and the official opening of the new five-year term of Parliament.
The President presided over the first Cabinet lekgotla of the administration at Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House in Pretoria over the weekend, where Ministers, Deputy Ministers, and Premiers gathered to discuss the government’s agenda.
The OPA will also provide an opportunity to hear the direction government is taking under the GNU.
According to Parliament, the address serves as a unifying force for the whole nation to collaborate and continue the progress made by past governments.
“It draws us in a common front to find ways to address the challenges we face and improve the lives of people.”
Mandela Day
This year’s opening of Parliament coincides with the United Nations-declared Nelson Mandela International Day.
July 18 marks the birthday of the founding President of a democratic South Africa and is a global celebration. It is a day for personal and collective actions for good that honour the leader’s life and legacy.
The Presidency has since called on citizens and communities to take time to reflect on Mandela’s values and principles and to make a positive impact on communities globally.
The OPA will take place at the Cape Town City Hall.
South Africans can tune into their favourite television or radio station to be part of this national milestone.
Proceedings will also be covered via government and Parliament social media accounts. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 07/17/2024 - 14:57
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Heavy rains expected for Opening of Parliament Address
Heavy rains and cold weather is expected in Cape Town tomorrow evening as President Cyril Ramaphosa convenes a joint sitting of the newly established two Houses of Parliament to deliver the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA).
South African Weather Service (SAWS) forecaster, Samkelisiwe Thwala, told SANews on Wednesday that isolated scattered showers and rain with a portion of a cold front are expected in the Western Cape, with South Western parts expecting 80% chance of rain and showers on Thursday.
“We also have three weather alerts that are associated with cold fronts. [There is a] Yellow Level 2 warning for disruptive rain, leading to localised flooding of roads, which is expected over the Cape Winelands, City of Cape Town, parts of the West Coast, and Theewaterskloof Municipalities,” Thwala said.
Thwala warned of a further cold front approaching on Friday.
“It is going to be two-days of rainy and cold weather. Strong winds and damaging waves are also predicted for the coastal areas up to Plettenberg Bay on the southeast coast,” Thwala said.
Opening of Parliament
The opening of Parliament, which will be attended by members of both Houses, the National Assembly and National Council of Provinces, will mark the start of the new five-year parliamentary cycle.
The address provides President Ramaphosa with an opportunity to outline the key priorities and policies of the seventh administration.
The new administration is made up of several political parties that formed a Government of National Unity founded on the respect for the Constitution, the Bill of Rights in its entirety, a united South Africa, and the rule of law.
The Opening of Parliament Address also coincides with the United Nations-declared Nelson Mandela International Day, which calls on people around the world to take action to help change the world for the better, and by doing so, build a global movement for good.
Government has invited all South Africans to be part of the Opening of Parliament Address at 7pm.
South Africans can tune into their favourite television or radio station to be part of this national milestone.
Proceedings will also be covered via government and Parliament social media accounts. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 07/17/2024 - 15:01