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The SA Rugby Women’s First Division kicks off in three major rugby centers of the country on Saturday with all squads well aware of the possibilities of this journey for the team and individual players in the next couple of months. The 2023 version of the tournament saw eventual champions, Free State Women, promoted into …
The 2024 Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) Nyoloha Scholarship Programme (NSP) is a partnership between ACT, the Nedbank Arts Affinity and sponsors Sun International, Business and Arts South Africa (BASA), and MTN South Africa offering matriculants, school-leavers and budding arts practitioners the opportunity to be awarded 1 of 2 fully paid undergraduate scholarships to study […]
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SA records second death from Mpox, with six known positive cases
Health Minister Dr Joe Phaahla has announced a second death linked to Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox.
The announcement comes less than 24 hours after the government provided an update on its efforts to control the spread of the infectious disease.
According to the department, the deceased was a 38-year-old male patient, who was admitted at a local hospital in uMgungundlovu, KwaZulu-Natal.
The patient tested positive for Mpox on Wednesday after presenting with extensive lesions, lymphadenopathy, headache, fatigue, oral ulcers, muscle pain, and a sore throat.
“The patient has unfortunately demised in KwaZulu-Natal the same day his test results came back positive,” the statement read on Thursday.
The deceased is said to have been living with HIV and listed his residential address as Brakpan in Gauteng.
This brings the total number of positive cases in the country from five to six, and two deaths within five weeks.
“The department is working closely with both Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal Departments of Health to investigate the case. Further updates and reports will be provided once the investigation has been concluded.”
Data shows that the sequencing results for the first three cases, sequence typed as clade ll b, the same as the sub-lineage responsible for the multi-country outbreak, which began in 2022 and has since spread to over 100 countries.
Phaahla emphasised the importance of personal hygiene, timely presentation at a health facility for early diagnosis, effective treatment in the case of suspected symptoms, and close physical contact with a known case.
“Mpox is a preventable and treatable disease if diagnosed early. People are urged to avoid physical contact with someone who has Mpox, practice hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette.”
The department is also warning patients to avoid contact with immunocompromised people, children or pregnant women, who may be at higher risk of severe symptoms if exposed.
Addressing the media on Wednesday, the Minister said there was currently no registered treatment for Mpox in South Africa.
However, he said the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends using Tecovirimat, also known as TPOXX, for treating severe cases, such as in individuals with a CD4 count of less than 350.
He announced that the department has obtained TPOXX via Section 21 South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAPHRA) approval on a compassionate use basis for known patients with severe disease.
The Minister said they are still looking at obtaining vaccines and considering various options, including who will be the priority target in terms of immunisation.
Government is also looking at immunising sex workers, men who have sex with men (MSM), healthcare workers, and laboratory workers.
The department, working together with partner organisations, has intensified both targeted and public awareness to empower citizens with crucial information related to Mpox.
The Minister also emphasised the importance of managing stigma for key populations at risk, while there have been no recommendations for any travel restrictions.
“I think one can safely say that, especially for adults, anybody who develops those kinds of eruptions on their skin, even if you may think it might be chickenpox, even young people, should seek medical attention,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 06/13/2024 - 10:18
Traditional leaders commend successful elections
The National House of Traditional and Khoisan Leaders (NHTKL) has congratulated South Africans on the successful, free and fair elections.
This after millions of South African citizens participated in the peaceful process of democratic civic expression, making their voices heard through the ballot in the General Election held last month.
NHTKL chairperson, Kgosi Thabo Milton Seatlholo, said in keeping with the principles of a seasoned democratic nation, the 2024 National and Provincial Elections reflect a maturing multiparty democracy in practice.
Seatlholo said given that no party has achieved an outright majority, this mandates all elected political parties to work together, as per the wishes of the people.
He said the NHTKL was encouraged by the maturity of the country’s party politics, as demonstrated during the campaigning phase.
“To this end, we call on all parties to honour their individual and collective responsibilities of ensuring the establishment of the 7th democratic Parliament and Provincial Legislatures, based on a solemn commitment to advance the gains and interests of all South African people.
“On behalf of the traditional communities in particular, we, as the institution representative of their will and aspirations, advocate for the formation of a government that recognises traditional leadership as a vital pillar in our constitutional democracy and a custodian of diverse cultures as well as traditions,” Seatlholo said.
Seatlholo said the institution of traditional leadership, working together with government and the private sector, has recorded notable progress in the development of traditional communities.
The chairperson said the formation of a new government is also an opportunity to consolidate the gains and accelerate inclusive rural development, as espoused by the Traditional and Khoi San Leadership Act, the 2019 InvestRural strategy, the Developmental Monarchy approach, as well as Agrarian Revolution.
He emphasised that traditional leadership cannot remain outside of building the country through the formation of the 7th Administration.
Seatlholo said the NHTKL was eager to work with a government that is sensitive to the land question, respects and honours the history and role of traditional leadership, noting that the liberation struggle was rooted in the struggle for land, which was inherited from traditional leaders; respects the institution of traditional leadership, its place, and its relevance within the democratic dispensation, and appreciates the role of traditional leadership as custodians of culture and custom in shaping identity in a plural society, and the significance of customary law.
“The National House would like to highlight its eagerness to work with a government that recognises the role that the institution of traditional leadership plays in supporting the ideals of cooperative governance, which is the foundation of effective, interrelated spheres of government, and promotes social cohesion, nation building, the fight against GBVF [Gender-Based violence and Femicide], poverty, crime, and other social ills.
“Traditional leadership makes a humble submission that the new government must give rise to the implementation of the different programmes of the institution that seek to bring the marginalised poor people in rural areas to the mainstream in order to benefit from government interventions,” Seatlholo said.
The institution noted the voices of civil society and other stakeholders expressing their respective positions and making inputs into the process of forming the new government, which is currently unfolding.
It further expressed confidence in the leadership engaged in the negotiations geared towards the country’s future, and encouraged inclusivity, with the hope that "each will not be ruled by narrow interests or be bullied by forces outside of what is best for our country and its people".
“While no single direction will please everyone, the outcome has to inspire confidence and be in the interest of the majority of South Africa’s people,” Seatlholo said.
The NHTKL is a body composed of traditional leaders, who are delegates from the Provincial Houses. The traditional leadership represents over 20 million South Africans who reside in communities under the leadership of the institution. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 06/13/2024 - 10:22
MDDA calls for community media grant applications
The Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) will this week host the first of two workshops to inform potential and existing MDDA grant funding applicants about the compliance requirements for the 2024/25 grant funding cycle.
The agency recently made a call encouraging community media projects with valid class broadcast service licenses, including radio, TV and community print publications, as well as small commercial print, to apply for the 2024/25 grant funding.
The application window officially opened on 31 May 2024 and will close on 28 June 2024.
The MDDA said community media projects are encouraged to apply.
“The MDDA aims to encourage media ownership, access and control to media, particularly by historically disadvantaged communities and diminished indigenous languages and cultural groups,” it said.
For print and digital publications, this year’s grant funding application call is focusing on Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Free State and the Western Cape.
The virtual workshop will be held from 10am to 1pm on Friday, 14 June 2024, on Microsoft Teams at the following link: https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/b5a52a3d-5128-4b2f-87f5-84c3c346c317@be508088-e9e6-4190-b402-329c20fd7bce.
For more updates regarding MDDA-related news and information, go to @MDDA_Media or WhatsApp 0635094934. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Thu, 06/13/2024 - 10:25
Junior Border Guards drive successes at ports of entry
The employment of Junior Border Guards at the country’s ports of entry is already yielding results and bolstering national security, while providing employment opportunities for young people.
This is according to the Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), Dr Michael Masiapato.
Speaking ahead of Youth Day this weekend, the Commissioner highlighted what he described as the “outstanding benefits of youth employment of Junior Border Guards, who continue to thrive with massive interceptions at ports of entry”.
During a border law enforcement operation on 11 June 2024, Junior Border Guards at the Lebombo Port of Entry intercepted significant units of counterfeit alcohol hidden in a minibus taxi, under bags of coal and packs of lettuce.
On 12 June 2024, they intercepted counterfeit clothing and shoes hidden in a trailer of another minibus taxi and in a bakkie full of vegetables.
“These vehicles were travelling from Mozambique trying to smuggle the goods illegally when they were stopped for a routine search. The matters were handed over to customs for processing,” said Masiapato.
He highlighted the positive impact the Junior Border Guards have brought in the border law enforcement environment.
He further emphasised the value of investing in youth and the significant returns the investment brings to society.
“As we celebrate Youth Month, the Junior Border Guards continue to play a pivotal role in enhancing the effectiveness of our border security measures. These young recruits, equipped with rigorous training and a commitment to safeguarding our nation, have been instrumental in making massive interceptions that have disrupted illegal activities and protected our borders.
“Young people have been awarded the opportunity to contribute to our nation's safety and they are thriving at the job,” Masiapato said.
The Border Management Authority remains committed to protecting the 71 ports of entry while facilitating the legitimate movement of goods and people.
The work of the BMA covers areas of immigration, port health, environmental and agricultural biosecurity, including access control and general law enforcement at the ports of entry and border law enforcement areas.
The Commissioner said the authority looked forward to the continued success and the ongoing contributions of these dedicated young individuals. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Thu, 06/13/2024 - 10:48
New dispensation needed to improve water and sanitation service provision
Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu, says a new dispensation is needed in the water and sanitation sector to certify proper water management and propel the country to greater heights that will realise water security for future generations.
Mchunu was speaking at the Water Institute of Southern Africa (WISA) Conference, currently underway at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre, Durban.
The three-day WISA Conference has brought together over 1 500 academics, professionals, industry experts and law makers in the water and sanitation fields to discuss key issues and challenges in the water sector.
The 2024 conference, held in partnership with uMngeni-uThukela Water, aims to discuss and come up with sustainable solutions to the challenges within the water sector.
Mchunu said the current state of water and sanitation services has challenged government and its partners to turn things around, and set high standards for the water and sanitation sector.
“To a certain extent, water resource management has not received the attention it deserves, and the reality is visible with the deterioration of the water quality of our rivers.
“This is mainly due to pollution emanating from mining activities, industry, agriculture and to a greater extent, from dysfunctional municipal wastewater systems,” Mchunu said.
In an attempt to address this problem, Mchunu said the department has established a national anti-pollution structure that will work with the department to curb pollution of the country’s rivers and dams.
The Minister emphasised that water resource management is more than just a technical challenge, but a societal imperative.
“Water resources are the lifeblood of our nation, underpinning our health, our economy, and our environment,” Mchunu said.
Catchment Management Agencies
During the conference, Mchunu launched four Catchment Management Agencies (CMAs).
They are the Limpopo-Olifants, Vaal-Orange, Pongola-Umzimkulu, Mzimvubu-Tsitsikamma Catchment Management Agencies.
They will be working alongside the already existing Breede-Olifants and Inkomati-Usuthu CMAs.
The establishment of the CMAs is in line with the provisions of the National Water Act (NWA) and the National Water Policy for South Africa to enhance decentralised decision-making in managing water resources, in an integrated manner, at a local level.
The agencies will be responsible for the protection, use, development, conservation, management, and control of all the water resources in a water management area (WMA) at the catchment level.
They also ensure participative management, good water governance and integrated planning, and improving co-operative governance of the country’s water resources in order to achieve the objectives of the National Water Act, equity, accessibility and government’s commitments to improving service delivery.
These responsibilities require that all spheres of government, water users and communities in the water management area work with CMAs as partners.
In acknowledging the effects of climate change, Mchunu said the department is an important contributor to building a climate-resilient future through continuous strategising and effective provision of water and sanitation services.
“CMAs, at local level, will bring together stakeholders to build capacity around creating a climate resilient environment. We are confident that the rationalisation will still achieve the Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) principle of decentralisation of water resource management to local level and contribute to the transformation of the water sector,” Mchunu said. - SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 06/13/2024 - 11:31
Tobacco use in SA remains high, with smokers starting at a younger age
The prevalence of smoking in South Africa remains high compared to other countries, with an average of 8.5 cigarettes smoked per day by daily smokers.
This information is based on the 2021 Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS) South Africa report, released by the Department of Health on Thursday.
Based on the most recent data from GATS, sampled from 7 245 households, it was found that the prevalence of tobacco use in South Africa is 29.4%.
The data also revealed that a higher percentage of men (41.7%) are currently using tobacco compared to women (17.9%).
Lead investigator, Dr Catherine Egbe from the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), stated that 21.2% of adults in South Africa smoke daily, while 4.6% smoke occasionally.
The highest prevalence of tobacco is found in the Northern Cape, followed by the Western Cape, while the lowest is in Limpopo.
Shifting her focus to the age of initiation of tobacco use, Egbe said the average age of initiation was 17.6 years old among adults aged between 20 and 34.
Meanwhile, 20.9% of urban residents and 13.5% of rural residents initiated smoking before the age of 15.
In addition, Egbe stated that 33.9% of daily tobacco users smoke within five minutes of waking up.
E-cigarettes and hookah pipe
Meanwhile, 2.2% said they were currently using e-cigarettes, of which 3.8% are men and 0.7% are women.
Of those using e-cigarettes, 70.3% cited enjoyment, 67.5% cited flavour, 45.1% perceived it as less harmful than tobacco, while 43.5% said their use was influenced by friends or family members who use e-cigarettes.
The study also found that 3.1% of adults reported smoking hookah pipe or hubbly bubbly.
“The mean age of initiation for those who have ever smoked water pipe was 21.1 years,” Egbe said.
For those aged between 15 and 24, the average age of initiation was 17.3 years old.
Quitting
Among adults currently smoking tobacco, 80.9% attempted to quit without assistance, 4.1% used pharmacotherapy, and 42.9% received advice to stop from their healthcare provider.
Data also shows that 74.4% of adults who visited public places were exposed to second-hand smoke (SHS) at bars, taverns, shebeens or nightclubs.
Meanwhile, 19.9% were exposed to SHS at school, 16.0% at tertiary institutions and 11.3% in cafes.
Data indicates that men spent slightly more on cigarettes, R273.20, while women spent around R207.20 monthly.
Government interventions
The Department of Health’s Deputy Director of General Primary Healthcare, Jeanette Hunter, has noted an increase in the use of hookah, e-cigarettes and vapes, particularly among young people.
“Studies have highlighted health risks associated with the use of e-cigarettes and hookah pipes, hubbly bubbly or shisha, even though they are aggressively marketed as healthier tobacco alternatives,” Hunter said.
She said scientists have provided enough evidence for countries to act and put measures in place to curb the use of these new-generation products.
“It is for this reason that we, as a country, amended the existing Tobacco Product Control Act, Act 83 of 1993 to incorporate the control of the use of electronic delivery systems. This amendment Bill is at the stage of going through Parliamentary processes.”
Hunter also raised concerns about citizens who are now starting to smoke at a younger age.
“Disappointingly, it reveals that a small percentage, only 42.9% of smokers, were advised by a healthcare provider to quit smoking.”
Hunter said the department has since identified the need to establish tobacco cessation programmes in primary healthcare facilities and that the feasibility of such programmes is being explored.
Hunter also highlighted the importance of the proposed ban on smoking in enclosed spaces after it was found that 44.5% of adults in South Africa are exposed to SHS.
Meanwhile, as part of the recommendations, Egbe emphasised the importance of implementing tobacco taxes, smoke-free laws, graphic health warnings, and total bans on tobacco advertising and promotion to reduce smoking initiation, particularly among young people.
“Effective strategies to reduce tobacco use, including putting in place more comprehensive laws that are compliant with the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, should be implemented to protect more people from exposure to SHS, and provide cessation services to help more people who smoke to quit,” Egbe said.
In addition, Egbe believes that if Parliament were to pass the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill of 2022, it would help reduce long-term tobacco use and the burden of tobacco-related diseases. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 06/13/2024 - 12:21
Chikunga commends signing of National Land Transport Amendment Bill into law
Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga says the signing into law of the amended National Land Transport Act (NLTA) 5 of 2009 finally paves the way for e-hailing services operators to apply for operating licences like any other public transport operator.
Chikunga commended the signing into law of the NLTA Bill, 2016, by President Cyril Ramaphosa, bringing to an end a 13-year wait for the amended bill, in order to accommodate e-hailing services.
Chikunga said the department has been developing regulations in parallel to the process of finalisation of the NLTA Amendment Bill by Parliament to address the President’s reservations.
The regulations were drafted, and the public was invited to submit comments through Government Gazette No. 49863. Public comments were received and considered by the department and incorporated where appropriate.
Thereafter, extensive consultation ensued with key stakeholders in the public transport’s space, inclusive of e-hailing services operators and e-hailing applications owners.
Chikunga said these regulations are ready and were awaiting the President to sign the Amendment Bill into law.
“Now that the President has signed the Amendment Bill, regulations will be submitted to the Office of the State Law Advisor for certification and submitted to the Minister for approval. This means that the e-hailing services operators will move away from the interim usage of charter permits and meter taxi operating licences to operating licences,” Chikunga said.
The National Land Transport Act was brought to the President’s desk in 2020 but was sent back to the National Assembly for reconsideration.
The revised Bill, amongst others, seeks to amend the National Land Transport Act, 2009, to insert certain definitions and amend others and provide for non-motorised and accessible transport.
Chikunga said the bill amends the National Land Transport Act of 2009 to bring it up to date with developments since the implementation and simplifies various provisions or solves problems that have arisen since the implementation; and makes provisions for non-motorized and accessible transport.
“It also enhances the roles of provinces and municipalities in public transport service contracts and expands the Minister's powers to implement regulations and safety measures as well as streamlines administrative arrangements for operating licences. Furthermore, it amends other transport-related legislation to bring it into line with the NLTA,” Chikunga said.
The Minister added that the NLTA now reflects government’s commitment to a modern, inclusive, and efficient transport system.
“In the whole, the Amendment Bill continues with the process of transformation and restructuring of the national land transport system as envisaged by the NLTA and initiated by the National Land Transport Transition Act, 2000.” – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 06/13/2024 - 12:22
Ekurhuleni customers warned against disconnections scam
The City of Ekurhuleni has warned ratepayers about scammers contacting them demanding money to stop “scheduled disconnections” because their municipal accounts are in arrears.
City spokesperson Zweli Dlamini said the scammers send customers a WhatsApp message requesting a payment be made through eWallet services in order to block the supposedly pending cut off of electricity.
“It is important that you are warned as our trusted clients and business associates that this is a scam, and the city distances itself from this illicit practice. The city is currently investigating the origins of the scam and those behind it so that we can put an end to it,” Dlamini said.
The city has urged anyone with more information on the scam to share the information with the city via the call centre, walk-in centres, or My COE app.
Dlamini also urged the city’s customers to take note of the following information to avoid becoming victims of the scamsters:
• The city does not make phone calls to clients pertaining to service disconnection;
• Clients will always receive a Pre-Termination notice at least 14 days after their payment due date has lapsed;
• Should clients fail to make payment by the set date, the City’s employees with Ekurhuleni identification cards travelling in marked Ekurhuleni vehicles will do the rounds to disconnect conventional electricity users and live a disconnection notice with an amount payable for reconnection; and
• Prepaid users will simply have their meters blocked.
“Contractors will not at any point come to a client’s house to discuss any disconnection issues, they simply terminate the service from outside the property. Should this irregular practice happen, the customer is requested to report the incident to the municipality,” Dlamini said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 06/13/2024 - 13:56
Parliament ready for National Assembly sitting
Secretary to Parliament, Xolile George, has described the first sittings of the National Assembly (NA) and the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) as a reflection of the electoral mandate of the people of South Africa, as expressed in the recent elections.
“The people have spoken. They have chosen a Parliament that will represent them, as freely elected representatives as reflected in the preamble of the Constitution, to champion their causes, and serve their interests for the next five years,” he said on Thursday.
George held a media briefing on Thursday as Parliament gears up to host the first sittings of the two Houses of Parliament scheduled for Friday and Saturday.
Tomorrow’s proceedings will also see Members of Parliament (MPs) electing a President who will form the seventh administration to govern the nation.
“Over the past months, the administration of Parliament has undertaken extensive preparatory work to ensure a seamless transition from the sixth term to the seventh term of Parliament. This has been a pivotal moment for us as a nation, involving a delicate constitutional process that has not been without its challenges.”
He touched on the challenges they have had to overcome such as court challenges to ensure the success of these important inaugural sittings of the two Houses of Parliament.
“This collective effort underscores our commitment to upholding the democratic principles underpinning our Constitution and ensuring that the will of the people is effectively translated into action.
“With each step in this constitutional process having been meticulously followed and adhered to, we now stand at the cusp of yet another critical milestone in the history of our constitutional democracy.”
George explained that it was the Chief Justice Raymond Zondo’s responsibility to determine the dates for the first sittings of both Houses to preside over these sittings.
“Chief Justice Raymond Zondo has diligently complied with these constitutional obligations, ensuring that the two Houses of Parliament hold their first sittings within the prescribed 14-day period as mandated by the Constitution.”
The Secretary announced that the inaugural sittings will take place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).
Parliamentary process
The Chief Justice will open the session and preside over the swearing-in of all the permanent delegates appointed by their respective provinces.
“This will follow the first sittings of the provincial legislatures to elect permanent and non-permanent delegates to the NCOP.
“After presiding over the swearing-in of the 54 designated permanent delegates, the Chief Justice will also chair the election of the Chairperson of the Council.”
Once elected, the new Chairperson will take over the proceedings and preside over the election of the Deputy Chairpersons.
Following the swearing-in ceremony, Chief Justice Zondo will also preside over the election of the Speaker of the NA and then he or she will take over the proceedings and preside over the election of the Deputy Speaker.
“These elections are crucial for the proper constitution of the National Assembly, as they ensure the leadership structure is in place to guide the House’s functions and duties.”
Once the Speaker and Deputy Speaker are elected, George explained that the NA will then be constitutionally competent to proceed with electing a Member of the Assembly to be inaugurated as the President.
“This is a crucial process, as it sets the stage for the formation of the new administration that will govern the country. Once elected, the person ceases to be a Member of Parliament.”
George has assured citizens that all necessary voting infrastructure has been meticulously prepared to ensure a smooth and secure election process.
This includes the setup of voting booths for privacy, the provision of ballot boxes for the collection of votes, the preparation of the voters’ roll to verify eligible voters, and the availability of safety boxes for the secure safekeeping of ballot papers.
“We are fully prepared for the first sittings ... Our comprehensive preparations ensure that every aspect of these inaugural sessions, from logistical arrangements to security measures, have been meticulously planned and implemented.
“We are confident that the proceedings will unfold smoothly and effectively, marking the successful commencement of the 7th democratic Parliament,” said George. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 06/13/2024 - 15:37
The Stellantis Customer Care Promise commits to four key aftersales guarantees: All new passenger cars backed by 5 years/100 000 km warranty Mobility guarantee for warrantied vehicles standing for more than 48 hours at an approved Stellantis dealership Mobility guarantee for vehicles standing for more than 30 days at an Approved Autobody Repairer due to …
Today, 13 June 2024, Premier Alan Winde was re-elected to lead the Western Cape Government (WCG) for another 5-year term. Premier Winde was formally re-elected at the first sitting of the 7th administration of the Western Cape Provincial Parliament (WCPP), where the Speaker and Deputy Speaker were also officially elected. Premier Winde said, “It is …
Date set for Presidential inauguration
The Secretary to Parliament, Xolile George, has announced that the inauguration of the President-elect will be held in Pretoria on Wednesday next week.
This comes as the National Assembly will hold its first sitting tomorrow at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, where the President will be elected following the swearing in of Members of Parliament.
The first sittings of the National Assembly on Friday and the National Council of Provinces on Saturday represents the establishment of the new parliamentary term, following the elections on 29 May 2024.
After receiving the list of candidates from Chief Justice Raymond Zondo, Parliament has been interfacing with the elected Members and their respective parties to capture their details into the parliamentary system.
The first sitting of the National Assembly will commence with the swearing-in of all designated members in attendance by the Chief Justice. Following the swearing-in ceremony, the Chief Justice will also preside over the election of the Speaker of the National Assembly.
“Once elected, the newly appointed Speaker will take over the proceedings and preside over the election of the Deputy Speaker. These elections are crucial for the proper constitution of the National Assembly, as they ensure the leadership structure is in place to guide the House’s functions and duties.
“With the Speaker and Deputy Speaker elected, the National Assembly will then be constitutionally competent to proceed with its first major task – the election of the man or woman from amongst the Members of the Assembly, to be inaugurated as the President of the Republic.
“This is a crucial process, as it sets the stage for the formation of the new administration that will govern the country. Once elected, the person ceases to be a Member of Parliament,” said George.
He said the Constitution stipulates that once elected as President by the National Assembly, the President-elect must assume office within five days by taking an oath or affirming their faithfulness to the Republic and their obedience to the Constitution.
George said that after the conclusion of the first sittings, members will proceed to attend the inauguration of the President-elect, which is scheduled for 19 June 2024 in Pretoria. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Thu, 06/13/2024 - 15:06
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