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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
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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
Opening of Parliament "a significant event" for the country’s democratic process
Speaker of the National Assembly Thoko Didiza says the Opening of Parliament is a significant event for the country’s democratic process, convened by the President in accordance with section 84 of the Constitution.
“It stands as one of the few occasions that brings the three arms of the State -- the executive, legislature and judiciary -- under one roof, reaffirming the commitment of all branches of State to democratic principles, accountability and cooperation in the pursuit of national progress and prosperity,” Didiza said.
Addressing media on the state of readiness to host the 2024 Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) on Wednesday, Didiza said following the adoption of the new joint rules of Parliament in November 2023, they now make a clear distinction between the Opening of Parliament Address and the State of the Nation Address (SONA).
The theme for the 2024 Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) is: "My Parliament, My Voice, My Future".
“The Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) serves as a pivotal platform for the President to articulate the administration's comprehensive plans and long-term vision for the upcoming five-year term,” Didiza said.
Didiza explained that this landmark event not only outlines government's strategic objectives and policy priorities but also officially inaugurates the new parliamentary term.
“[OPA] symbolises the continuity of democratic governance and sets the stage for legislative and executive collaboration in addressing national challenges and pursuing the country's development goals.
“The State of the Nation Address (SONA), delivered annually by the President in February, serves as a platform to review government's past year performance and outline its agenda for the coming year.
“The Joint Rules also aim to maintain order and decorum in the Chamber, while promoting civility among Members.
“Key provisions of the new rules prohibit members from interrupting the President during the Opening of Parliament Address and further stipulate that this joint sitting must focus solely on the specific business for which it is convened,” Didiza said.
Didiza said the measures are designed to preserve the dignity of Parliament and underscore the importance of these addresses in shaping the nation's legislative and developmental agenda.
This year's OPA holds particular significance, as it coincides with the commemoration of the 30th Anniversary of South Africa's constitutional democracy.
She explained that this provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress made since the inception of democratic governance and to determine the path that will be travelled in the next five years in the advancement of democracy.
“The OPA also takes place on Nelson Mandela Day, on 18 July 2024, a day of great importance which resonates with Parliament's commitment to the ideals of democracy, freedom, equality, and service to humanity.
“This OPA is truly historic as it is taking place under unique, complex, and testing political conditions in our nation, following the outcome of the 2024 Provincial and National Elections.
“These elections have resulted in the formation of a collaborative and unity government to lead our nation for the next five years,” she said.
Didiza said it's important to note that the hosting of the OPA represents the culmination of a multifaceted project to establish the seventh term of Parliament.
“In the weeks since the elections, we have successfully arranged and onboarded all 454 Members of Parliament across both Houses, successfully convened the first sittings of the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces, concluded the elections of Presiding Officers of Parliament, established committees and elected chairpersons, appointed office-bearers to serve in various structures and immediately proceeded to debate departmental budget votes,” Didiza said.
Didiza also explained that this year’s theme resonates with the momentous 30-year milestone of the country’s democracy under which the 7th Parliament is established, reaffirming renewed commitment to a people-centred Parliament and tireless dedication to transforming democratic achievements into tangible improvements in the lives of all South Africans.
“It emphasises the personal stake each citizen has in our democratic institutions and the collective future we are building together,” she said.
About the Opening of Parliament Address
The Opening of Parliament Address takes place once every five years, after the Provincial and National Elections, to outline the new administration's plans while also marking the official opening of the new five-year term of Parliament.
The OPA will take place at the Cape Town City Hall on 18 July 2024 at 19:00.
As of July 14, Cape Town City Hall has been officially designated as the parliamentary precinct in accordance with Section 2 of the Powers, Privileges, and Immunities of Parliament and Provincial Legislatures Act.
Among the esteemed guests invited to attend are:
• Former Presidents: Mr. Thabo Mbeki, Mr. Kgalema Motlanthe, and Mr. Jacob Zuma
• Former Speaker and Deputy President: Ms. Baleka Mbete
• Former Deputy Presidents: Ms. Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka and Mr. David Mabuza
• Former National Assembly Speakers and National Council of Provinces Chairpersons
• Chief Justice Zondo, Deputy Chief Justice Maya, and 15 Judges
• Executive Mayor of Cape Town: Alderman Geordin Hill-Lewis
• 9 Eminent Persons representing each of the provinces.
- SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 07/17/2024 - 15:02
Locals nostalgic as opening of parliament draws close
With the hours ticking closer to the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA), parliamentary officials are busy finalising preparations for Thursday night’s ceremony.
On the ground, some locals are expressing nostalgia for the Opening of Parliament that took place in 1994 - 30 years ago.
A local resident, Skhosana Mkhwanazi, told SAnews that he cannot wait for the address tomorrow.
“This Parliament reminds me of Madiba’s Parliament, the Government of National Unity (GNU). I feel this is real democracy,” Mkhwanazi said.
He added that he hopes the political parties in the GNU will work together to advance the interests of all South Africans.
“I am confident that things are going to change for the better. Our lives are going to change for the better and there’s going to be better service delivery in our communities and there’s going to be less corruption. What has happened during the elections [of 29 May], was what people wanted. It was God’s will that all the parties should work together,” Mkhwanazi said.
Echoing the same sentiments was Arkell Marson who expressed his irritation at politicians who were enriching themselves and forgetting about the people who voted them in power.
“All the parties are going to work together to improve our lives and create more job opportunities,” he told SAnews.
As of 14 July 2024, the Cape Town City Hall has been officially designated as the parliamentary precinct in accordance with Section 2 of the Powers, Privileges, and Immunities of Parliament and Provincial Legislatures Act.
Streets in the vicinity of the City Hall have been closed and the red carpet has been rolled out for President Cyril Ramaphosa, his Deputy Paul Mashatile, Cabinet Ministers, Parliamentarians and other guests who will be attending the address which will get underway at 7pm.
Despite the predicted rainy weather, all is on track for tomorrow’s big day.
READ | Heavy rains expected for Opening of Parliament Address
On the opposite side of the hall, a big marquee has been set up and both the community and national media representatives have taken their positions therin. Meanwhile, military and police officials are also dotting their I's and crossing their T’s.
Within the vicinity of the City Hall, decorations with flowers have been put up, where only police, military and government vehicles are allowed.
“We have accredited about 9 000 journalists to cover the Opening of Parliament tomorrow,” Parliamentary spokesperson Moloto Mothapo said on Wednesday.
Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza, earlier today said this historic event marks the beginning of the seventh term of a democratic Parliament and reaffirms its unwavering commitment to constitutional democracy.
“We look forward to welcoming all participants to this significant occasion, which promises to be a compelling demonstration of our nation's democratic principles, unity and resilience,” she said.
Mandela Day
This year’s opening of Parliament is unique as it takes place on Nelson Mandela’s birthday, 18 July.
In this regard, Parliament has called upon all parliamentarians, South Africans and global citizens to emulate Madiba's selflessness and untiring service to humanity.
The Presiding Officers of Parliament will tomorrow take time away from their OPA duties to participate in service programs around Cape Town.
This, according to the Speaker of the National Assembly, holds particular significance, as it coincides with the commemoration of the 30th Anniversary of South Africa's constitutional democracy. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 07/17/2024 - 16:40
The organisation has nonetheless continued to provide humanitarian relief
OPA paints a picture of the next five years
National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza has encouraged South Africans to watch the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) to hear how their vote will work for them in the coming five years of the seventh administration.
Didiza was speaking to SAnews on the side lines of the pre-OPA walkabout at the Parliamentary Precinct at the Cape Town City Hall – the site where President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver his much anticipated address on Thursday.
The address is scheduled for 7pm.
“It is important to listen in so that we can hear how our vote is going to be used to fulfil the needs and aspirations that we have for the country. The people are waiting to hear from government and how it will serve them,” she said.
OPA, the Speaker told SAnews will also set out how the parties that make up the Government of National Unity (GNU) are going to join forces to serve.
“After the vote, there was a Government of National Unity formed and people would want to know how that is going to work.
“That’s what we will hear tomorrow. It is no longer a government led by one party but by a number of parties, so people will get to know how they are going to come together and what it is they say they will do for us going forward. The OPA gives us a picture of what it is we can expect from government over the next five years,” she said.
Didiza said OPA will give South Africans a platform they can look back on in five years time in terms of what their government has done for them.
The Speaker explained the difference between the State of the Nation Address and the Opening of Parliament.
“When a term of office starts following elections, the President requests that he come and address the Members of Parliament to tell them what the administration will be doing in the next five years.
“And then during [SONA], he comes to lay out the plans that the administration has for the coming year. He also reflects on what it is he has achieved over the previous year. Then after that, the Minister of Finance will explain how those plans will be financed…
“So at the start of an administration, the President paints a picture for the next five years,” she said.
Earlier in the day during a media briefing, Didiza explained that, as is tradition, the South African National Defence Force will participate with a display of military pageantry.
This includes a performance by the military band, precision drills and a display showcasing the skills and traditions of the armed forces of the Republic.
“The official proceedings begin when the President of the Republic arrives. At the moment, the military choir will perform the national anthem, timed to coincide with the display of the 21-gun salute and an aircraft flyover and salute, highlighting the patriotic spirit of the event,” Didiza said.
The Opening of Parliament Address is expected to commence at 7pm on Thursday, 18 July, the same day the country and the world commemorate Nelson Mandela International Day. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 07/17/2024 - 17:00