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Locals nostalgic as opening of parliament draws close

Location: News

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

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Commemorating Nelson Mandela International Day in our 30 years of freedom and democracy

Location: News

Commemorating Nelson Mandela International Day in our 30 years of freedom and democracy

By Nomonde Mnukwa

Every year on 18 July, South Africans from all walks of life join together to celebrate and honour a man who changed the world for the better. This commemoration pays tribute to the life and works of the late former President Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, who was the first black president of our democratic government and a global icon.

During this time, people around the world are encouraged to advance Madiba’s legacy and uphold his ideals of a non-racial, non-sexist and equal society.

Mandela Day was introduced in 2009 following a unanimous decision by the General Assembly of the United Nations. It was aimed at encouraging a young generation of leaders to take responsibility in addressing challenges faced by people around the world.

In South Africa we get a chance to celebrate Madiba for the whole month of July.

This year’s Nelson Mandela International Day will be celebrated under the theme: “It’s still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity”. This occasion also presents us with an opportunity to work together to build the country we envisioned at the start of our democracy. This includes taking care of the most vulnerable in our society.

In honour of Madiba, government is calling on everyone in the country to use this Mandela Day to improve the lives of those in need. Let us go to our communities to help address some of the problems that our people face as Madiba did many years ago. These actions can range from doing work in your community or providing other necessities to those who are in need.

You can start a community food garden or donate food to a soup kitchen in your community. This is in line with the spirit of Ubuntu that says a person is a person through other people. Our actions can go a long way towards taking the legacy of our icon forward and for the next generation to learn from us. Our history shows that if we work together we can overcome all the challenges we face.

Several events will be held throughout the month to inspire positive change within our communities. This includes the 2024 Mandela Day Walk and Run event which will be held on 20 July 2024 at the DP World Wanderers Stadium. Those who want to participate can choose from the 5km, 10km, and 21km distances.

This year’s Mandela Day takes on an added significance as it coincides with the Opening of Parliament Address for the 7th Administration. The opening provides President Cyril Ramaphosa an opportunity to outline the key priorities and policies of the administration which is made up of several political parties that formed a Government of National Unity (GNU). The GNU is bound by a commitment to respect the constitution and to promote accountable, transparent and good governance.

Government invites all South Africans to be part of the Opening of Parliament Address on Thursday, 18 July 2024 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 parliamentary social media accounts. South Africans should also familiarise themselves with the contents of the address so everyone can contribute to our growth and development.

Throughout this year, we are also commemorating 30 years of democracy and freedom, and occasions such as a Mandela Day are a reminder of just how far we have come. As government we have various plans to celebrate and mark this national milestone throughout the year.

We have already launched the Democracy Bus Project to draw South Africans from across the country into our nation’s celebration. The bus will journey to different parts of our amazing country – from our nation’s towering cities to deep rural communities – to share our unique story of South Africa rising from a turbulent past to the vibrant hopeful nation.

The Democracy Bus and the story it tells is a reminder of the road we have travelled since 1994, along with the many sacrifices made by generations before who defiantly fought for a better life for all. Their actions, along with icons such as Madiba and many others have given us an opportunity to live in a society where all are valued, and can work to make South Africa a better country to live in.

*Nomonde Mnukwa is Acting Director-General of the GCIS

Neo
Wed, 07/17/2024 - 15:39

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‘This moment in our history is one for all South Africans’ – Minister Ntshavheni

Location: News

'This moment in our history is one for all South Africans' - Minister Ntshavheni

Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, says the mandate given to political parties by South Africans following the general elections is a mandate that all South Africans must act on to create a better South Africa.

The Minister said this when she was delivering the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) Budget Vote n Parliament on Friday morning.i

This year’s general election results produced no outright majority winner – tasking various political leaders to work together to form a Government of National Unity (GNU), much like what was required at the dawn of democracy in 1994.

Some 11 political parties are part of the GNU with leaders from some of those political formations appointed as Ministers and Deputy Ministers.

“The historic mandate which we are granted to be the seventh administration and the seventh parliament is not confined to political parties. But this is a national effort in which all South Africans must participate as each of us acts to create the South Africa in which we wish to live, raise our children and exercise our economic skills following the general elections.

“This mandate must build on the great strides we have made since 1994 as reflected in the Census 2022 results which paints a picture of a society on the move and which reflects improvements across most indicators despite the challenges confronting us,” she said.

The Minister explained that the GCIS will “dedicate its expertise and resources to supporting the work of the Government of National Unity so that we can provide South Africans and our partners with information that can help us to move forward as a country”.

“Our first task, as the country navigates these unchartered waters is to educate citizens about the establishment of the seventh administration which, in its current form, is unprecedented in the history of our democracy.

“As part of the new administration and with an equally inclusive cohort of communication professionals, GCIS will spearhead a well functioning communication system that prioritises informed and empowered citizens,” she said.

Ntshavheni acknowledged that the task before the department is a “mammoth one”.

The budget allocation for the GCIS over the three years of the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) amounts to some R2.3 billion.

“In the coming period, the GCIS will have to be at the forefront of engaging citizens on the work of government with emphasis on mobilising all of society to be part of the unity and change and progress in our country.

“This moment in our history is one for all South Africans to make their voices heard and their actions seen and felt across society,” she said.

Ntshavheni laid out some of the plans the department will embark on to ensure that every citizen has access to information.

“GCIS has put forward bold and decisive plans to use the strong communications system it has developed over the years to ensure that South Africans remain abreast of key developments that take place within the country.

“The department will…use communication to help citizens across the length and breadth of our nation to participate in and enjoy the benefits of our hard won democracy and freedom. It will share critical information on government services and programmes as well as create opportunities to open the economy to more South Africans,” she said.

The Minister revealed that one of the tasks that the government-wide communication system has is to rebuild “trust between citizens and the government the nation has put in place”.

She added that the department will also be tasked with motivating South Africans to “replace cynicism, suspicion and despondency with active citizenship, social investment and confidence in our future”.

Turning to the gains of the past 30 years of democracy, Ntshavheni emphasised that the developments seen across South Africa since 1994 are “not by chance” but are as a result of concerted government programmes and effort.

“Today millions of households have access to housing, water, sanitation and electricity when compared to 1994.

"Our policies have facilitated the greater economic transformation and the empowerment of previously disadvantaged individuals.

“We have introduced laws and policies on worker rights, employment equity and broad based black empowerment. There has been strong investment in infrastructure, public employment programmes and achieving higher levels of economic growth; but the challenges remain.

“This is a journey that has had and will have many facets into the future,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 07/12/2024 - 13:34

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National Assembly elects chairpersons of committees

Location: News

National Assembly elects chairpersons of committees

The newly established committees of the National Assembly (NA) on Tuesday elected chairpersons of some of the committees.

These committees are the engine rooms of Parliament, where, among others, the work of the executive is scrutinised.

“The elected chairpersons will play a key role in chairing and determining the agenda of meetings and organising the administrative affairs of a committee,” Parliament said in a statement. 

They are also responsible for ensuring that committee decisions are compiled into a report and tabled in the respective House.

“The role of committees includes oversight over the executive and promoting public involvement in law-making,” Parliament said. 

Committee meetings are generally open to the public, where ordinary South Africans can express their opinions directly and, in this way, influence the outcome of Parliament's decisions.

Portfolio Committees

According to the NA Rules, the Speaker, acting with the concurrence of the Rules Committee, must establish a range of portfolio committees and determine a name for each committee. This was done last week. 

There are 30 portfolio committees. Each committee has both full members and several alternate members. 

The Speaker may also determine, with the concurrence of the Rules Committee, the size (number of members per party) of the portfolio committee. 

Political parties appoint the members that will represent them on a committee and advise the Speaker accordingly. Parties must appoint their members within five working days after the establishment of a committee by the House.

Only 16 of the 30 portfolio committees met to elect chairpersons on Tuesday and the remaining 14 will convene their meetings today. 

The elected chairpersons are as follows:

Portfolio Committee on Health – Dr Sibongiseni Dlhomo

  • Standing Committee on Finance – Dr Mkhacani Joseph Maswanganyi

  • Portfolio Committee on Minerals and Petroleum Resources - Mr Mikateko Mahlaule

  • Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation - Mr Supra Obakeng Mahumapelo

  • Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development- Mr Xola Nqola

  • Portfolio Committee on Employment and Labour – Mr Boyce Maneli

  • Portfolio Committee on Public Administration- Mr Jan Naude De Villiers

  • Portfolio Committee on Water and Sanitation - Mr Leon Basson

  • Portfolio Committee on Communications and Technologies - Ms Khusela Sangoni

  • Portfolio Committee on Transport - Mr Selelo Selamolela

  • Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services - Ms Anthea Ramolobeng

  • Portfolio Committee on Forestry, Fisheries and Environment - Ms Nqabisa Gantsho

  • Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans - Mr Dakota Legoete

  • Portfolio Committee on Monitoring and Evaluation - Ms Teliswa Mgweba

  • Portfolio Committee on Basic Education - Ms Khomotjo Joy Maimela

  • Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs - Mr Mosa Chabane

- SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Wed, 07/10/2024 - 10:06

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Trust and relationships key ingredients to coalition governments

Location: News

Trust and relationships key ingredients to coalition governments

Former Advisor to Coalition Governments in Ireland, Fergus Finlay, says trust and relationships are an important ingredient towards the success of coalition governments.

“The key thing about coalitions is relationships, acceptance that you not going to get everything you want in a coalition, [and] acceptance that even if you don’t get everything you want, you are going to respect the bottom line,” Finlay said.

Finlay made the remarks during a webinar held under the topic: “Making Coalitions and Governments of National Unity Work: The Role of Professional Bureaucracies.”

The webinar was hosted by the National School of Government (NSG). 

It provided a platform to discuss the likely impact of the Government of National Unity (GNU) on the public administration and governance system, with lessons from countries abroad that have gone through power sharing arrangements, as well as in the country’s local government system where coalitions have also been in existence for a few years.

During Monday’s session, experts from the country and abroad shared their insights and experiences on the impact of coalition arrangements on public sector institutions.

Sharing his experience on coalition governments, Finlay said relationships, trust and a written programme is essential, noting that detailed structure to get to the programme is imminent.

“There is no guarantee in the end of success, unless there is trust and mutual respect,” Finlay said.
 

Former Chief of Cabinet for various Belgian Ministers, including the Vice Prime Minister from the Belgium government--which is known for coalition governments-- Jan Cornillie noted that the longest coalition negotiation in Belgium took 514 days.

Sharing lessons learned on coalition agreements, Cornillie underscored the importance of discussing coalitions before entering into government and the need to make compromises and institutionalise it because ‘pacification is in itself a key to coalition outcome.’

“Limit the zone of possible agreements by introducing facts and constraints into the discussions (what is implementable), provide an overarching narrative in which governing parties can find themselves; make use of the nation’s centre(s) of excellence in policymaking, and provide access to chief advisors from all governing parties,” Cornillie said.

Cornillie also emphasised that government is not completed by Ministers and Cabinet alone, but need a whole system, including advisors, the civil service, national expert bodies, and political advisors that trust each other.

Overcoming difficulties

Professor of Political Science at the University of Florence and Coordinator of Department of Public Policy and Governance, National School of Administration (SNA), in Italy, Professor Andrea Lippi, acknowledged that coalition governments are difficult.

Lippi said through coalition governments, Italy has seen transformation of the Cabinet with more relevant, not only legal supervision, but brokering and with more employees; and creeping professionalisation of civil servants towards a strategic role of policy making.

He said Italy also experienced the relevant role of informal relationships, networking, governance among ministries, and multilevel governance with 20 regions and 7 000 more municipalities, as well as new relationships between representative bodies and bureaucrats and related new problems, including accountability, delegation of responsibilities, and bargaining.

“We have observed the increasing relevance of soft power in place of (or beside) hard power; new stream of skills for a policy of training in favour of top civil servants; increasing the role of evidence-based policy making [including] policy evaluation, policy advice, open government and participatory procedures, and multi-level governance [amongst others].”

Professional public officers should be apolitical

Lesotho Institute of Public Administration and Management Administration Director-General, Nthabiseng Tlhomola, argued that the role of professional public officers is to serve the government of the day and as such, should be apolitical.

For the first time since 1966, the Lesotho general elections in 2012 produced a hung government, where no single political party could form government, and political parties were forced to engage in talks to join forces.
On the rise of GNU in Lesotho, Tlhomola said in general, the manifestos of the country’s political parties were  similar  - looking into infrastructure development, job creation and growing the economy.

“We are now more than 10 years [into] a coalition government; we therefore have a story to tell,” Tlhomola said.
Tlhomola noted that even though the oversight institutions are affected by government changes, the government makes sure that their role to ensure that government business operates as expected, continues. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Mon, 07/08/2024 - 15:20

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Read moreTrust and relationships key ingredients to coalition governments

School of Government to host webinar on GNU

Location: News

School of Government to host webinar on GNU

The National School of Government (NSG) will host an important webinar on the new South African government system, a Government of National Unity (GNU) as well as coalition arrangements.

Monday’s webinar will focus on making coalitions and GNU work and the role of professional bureaucracies. 

“The webinar will provide a platform to discuss the likely impact of the GNU on the public administration and governance system, with lessons from countries abroad that have gone through power-sharing arrangements as well as in the country’s local government system where coalitions have also been in existence for a few years,” the NSG explained. 

The session will include local and overseas experts who will share their insights and experiences on the impact of coalition arrangements on public sector institutions. 

The speakers include former Advisor to Coalition Governments in Ireland Fergus Finlay as well as Jan Cornillie, Former Chief of Cabinet for various Belgian Ministers.

The attendees will also hear from Lesotho Institute of Public Administration and Management Administration Director-General, Nthabiseng Tlhomola, Chairperson of the Public Service Commission Professor Somadoda Fikeni and many more. 

Announcing his new Cabinet last month, President Cyril Ramaphosa said the establishment of the GNU in its current form was unprecedented in the history of the country’s democracy. 

The President said: “We have had to consider how to form the new government in a manner that advances the national interest, that gives due consideration to the outcome of the election and that makes use of the respective capabilities within each of the parties”.

The President added that all the political parties who were members of the GNU had committed to respecting the Constitution, promoting accountable and transparent governance, evidence-based policy and decision-making as well as the professionalisation of the public service, integrity and good governance.

The NSG has introduced a series of webinars and seminars over the past few years to exchange knowledge and promote a culture of continuous learning within the public sector. 

These sessions aim to ensure that public officials can benefit from the latest thinking from the global content and local levels’ experiences. 

Each session is addressed by a senior expert on the topic of focus and is generally attended by senior leaders from across the public sector both elected leaders and appointed officials.

President Ramaphosa and a range of Ministers have also previously participated in a webinar arranged by the school. 

The webinar will take place virtually on Monday from 9 am to 1 pm.

Click on this link to register https://thensg-gov-za.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_GvBAX8j5RRO-EQ1d7YfkOA#/registration. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Sun, 07/07/2024 - 13:02

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GNU: A new era for SA

Location: News

GNU: A new era for SA

As the new Cabinet of the seventh administration gets to grips with the workings of their various portfolios - it has been advised to place ordinary South Africans at the heart of the administration.

“Show the ordinary South Africans that their well-being is the ultimate goal and at the heart of those running government and the administration,” Extraordinary Professor at the Department of Political Sciences at the University of Pretoria, Henning Melber, told SAnews.

Melber’s comments follow on the announcement on Sunday, 30 June 2024, of the new National Executive of the seventh administration by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

The much-anticipated announcement is the result of the National and Provincial Elections that were held on 29 May. For the first time in democratic South Africa’s history, that election did not result in an outright majority for a single party to lead the country for the next five years.

The will of the people

In those initial days following from the point where voting took place, up to the announcement of the results, ordinary citizens were wondering what would happen next. After all, we were accustomed to living in a country that since the advent of democracy, was led by a single majority party.

However, from the hotly contested elections themselves to the announcement of the election results, peace was the order of the day. This also extended to the period of the swearing in of Members of Parliament (MPs) and other MPs at a later stage, as well as the election of National Assembly (NA) Speaker Thoko Didiza and National Council of Provinces (NCOP) Chairperson Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane. The election and inauguration of Cyril Ramaphosa as President and head of government of the seventh administration was also peaceful.

An acceptance of the will of the people at the ballot box also played an important part in where the country finds itself today with the seventh administration’s Government of National Unity (GNU) starting to take shape.

This GNU, however, differs from the one that South Africa had, following the seminal elections of 1994 that saw the African National Congress (ANC) go into a GNU with two other political parties, despite having won an outright majority. The current GNU comprises 11parties across the political spectrum.

These parties are: the African National Congress (ANC), Democratic Alliance (DA), Patriotic Alliance, Inkatha Freedom Party, Good Party, Pan Africanist Congress of Azania, Freedom Front Plus, United Democratic Movement, Al Jama-ah, Rise Mzansi and the United Africans Transformation. 

Collaboration

In an interview with SAnews, Melber further advised parties involved in the GNU to “collaborate with members of other parties based on trust; seeking to improve efficiency in service delivery.”

With this rather eventful week drawing to a close, South Africans not only witnessed the announcement of the new Cabinet, but also the swearing in of the new executive, including Deputy President Paul Mashatile as well as the induction programme of new MPS in the Western Cape.

And yes, it did take some time to get to where we are now as a country, but we must remember that Rome was not built in a day.

In his address to the nation on Sunday, President Ramaphosa acknowledged the length of time it took to put together the administration.

Confidence vs Time

However, Melber points out that given the different elements at play, the process in truth did not take too much time.

He said that given the rather unusual, if not complicated blend of parties who needed to secure common ground, and agreeing on an acceptable power sharing arrangement in terms of portfolios -, this process had actually not taken that long.

“And it was a necessary investment in building a minimum degree of confidence and trust as a point of departure. There are democracies who for months (among others The Netherlands, Sweden) if not years (Belgium) had not a proper government and were neither less politically stable. Many observers at least in the Western democracies were hoping for such a power-sharing arrangement and did not expect this to happen much faster. Building a reliable collaboration between political parties so different in their programmes needs time,” Melber explained.

A new era

In his inauguration address on 19 June 2024, President Ramaphosa described the GNU as “the beginning of a new era” adding that it requires a common mission, which is anchored in safeguarding national unity, peace, stability, inclusive economic growth, non-racialism and non-sexism.

Asked about his thoughts on the GNU, Melber said: “Under the given circumstances of the election result, the decision to form a GNU seemed to be a wise and considerate move, aiming to accommodate a broad middle for political stability in a government, in which the ANC remains the major party.”

The announcement of the new Cabinet also came with changes in government departments that involve the merger of the Ministries of Electricity and Energy as well as the announcement of a separate Ministry of Mineral and Petroleum Resources. The President also announced the separation of the Ministry of Agriculture from the Ministry of Land Reform and Rural Development, among others.

“This is a necessary adjustment to accommodate divergent interests seeking influence in governance. If in the end - despite some further bloating of the structures - it provides a reliable operational structure to make improvements in delivery - it is a well justified investment,” said the Professor.

South Africa’s future under a GNU is now underway with Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni having held the first media briefing of the seventh administration on Thursday, 4 July 2024.

At that briefing, the Minister outlined the process that would be followed to set government’s priorities and programme of action for the seventh administration. These said the Minister, will be articulated in the Medium-Term Strategic Framework (MTSF), which is normally guided by the election manifesto of the governing party. However, in this case of the GNU, a unique case for government, this will be guided by the election manifestoes of the 11 parties to the GNU. 

To give effect to the signed Statement of Intent as signed by parties to the GNU, the Forum of South African Directors-General (FOSAD), chaired by the Director-General in The Presidency, has undertaken the work of analysing the manifestoes of parties to the GNU.

After thorough scrutiny, the Directors-General will then submit a proposal for consideration and adoption at the Cabinet Lekgotla scheduled for 11-12 July.

The two-day Lekgotla will deliberate on the proposals of the Directors-General, after which the programmes and priorities of government will be announced.  

“The adopted programme of action (MTSF) will be announced by the President at the Opening of Parliament on Thursday, 18 July 2024. After the adoption of the MTSF, the individual departments will then develop their Strategic Plans linked to the MTSF and Annual Performance Plans for implementation of the MTSF targets,” explained Minister Ntshavheni.

Happiness trajectory

Following the elections and Sunday’s cabinet announcement, South Africa’s happiness trends have been on an upright trajectory.

This is according to the Gross National Happiness (GNH) index. The index is the brainchild of Professor Talita Greyling of the University of Johannesburg (UJ) and Prof Stephanie Rossouw of the Auckland University of Technology, with the technical support of AFSTEREO (Pty) Ltd.

According to UJ, the GNH is the first index of its kind and measures the real-time sentiment of the country. 

“The much-anticipated announcement by President Cyril Ramaphosa of the new GNU Cabinet on 30 June 2024 is being experienced positively by the South African people, as shown by the near real-time Happiness Index of the GNH.today project.

“The happiness levels in South Africa have been trending upward since the election results were announced in June 2024, from 5.36 to 5.42,” the university said in a statement.

The GNH.today project measures happiness in near real-time based on specific emotion words used in Google searches.  

“The GNU ensures a broad representation and a solid mandate to govern the country, contributing to higher levels of transparency, accountability, and trust in the government.  It also explains the higher happiness levels, reflecting hope for a better future,” said the university.

In analysing the positive trend in the happiness index, the team found that positive emotion words used in South Africa increased, such as “hope”, “happiness”, and “joy”.

However, there was an increase in negative emotion words such as “bad” and “afraid”, but with a positive net effect. 

“The increase in both positive and negative words is expected as it indicates the debate around the newly appointed cabinet.  Different parties criticise the portfolio allocations and the ministers appointed. The increased size of the government is also critiqued.  On the other hand, there is relief that the Cabinet was announced after almost a month of negotiations. 

“This announcement implies an agreement about power-sharing,” said the university.

Asked about whether he thinks the GNU will stick, Professor Melber is hopeful.

“I’m afraid I have misplaced my crystal ball,” he chirps.

“More seriously [though,] one hopes for the sake of South African citizens that this GNU manages to operate and serve the best interest of the people. If this construction holds, it is a win-win situation for all the parties who were able to compromise for the sake of the people and the country’s stability,” he said. -SAnews.gov.za
 

Neo
Fri, 07/05/2024 - 12:54

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Cabinet will work together to thrash out policy – Ntshavheni

Location: News

Cabinet will work together to thrash out policy - Ntshavheni

Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni has moved to clarify that any policy or significant decision will be taken through Cabinet first before a decision on implementation can be taken.

The Minister was speaking at a media briefing a day after the swearing in ceremony of the Deputy President, Ministers and Deputy Ministers of the seventh administration on Wednesday.

The ceremony heralded in the Government of National Unity formed by members of eleven different political parties.

The eleven parties to the GNU include the African National Congress, Democratic Alliance, Patriotic Alliance, Inkatha Freedom Party, Good Party, Pan Africanist Congress of Azania, Freedom Front Plus, United Democratic Movement, Al Jama-ah, Rise Mzansi and the United Africans Transformation. 

During the briefing, Ntshavheni was at pains to explain that policy is not decided upon by individual ministers but through Cabinet.

“It should be stressed that both the President and individual ministers are duty bound to take the issues of policy, significant decisions such as decisions with financial consequences exceeding a department’s approved budget and any other matter…. they must take those matters to Cabinet.

“Failure to do so could undermine the validity of such a decision. So there is no single minister who can expropriate a decision of Cabinet or that policy decision to themselves because then that policy will not be valid in terms of the laws of the Republic…as provided for in the Constitution,” she said at Thursday’s briefing in Cape Town.

WATCH | Media briefing on the Government of National Unity 

Doubling down on her emphasis, the minister said as head of the National Executive, President Ramaphosa “exercises the executive authority of the Republic together with other members of the Cabinet and members of the Cabinet are only ministers”.

“In this regard, the President, with the Cabinet he is responsible for, and I’m quoting directly from the Constitution, implementing national legislation unless the Constitution or an Act of Parliament provides others.

“Two, developing and implementing national policy. So, the national policies are not of individual ministers but of Cabinet.”

Ntshavheni noted that although the Constitution provides that Cabinet take collective responsibility, it gives leeway for determination on which matters can be left to individual ministers.

“[It] allows the Cabinet and the President to determine the way and procedures by which they work together, including leaving certain matters or kinds of matters to be dealt with by a single member of Cabinet, meaning a minister.

“Therefore, if a matter is not a routine matter or departmental specific matter or function, it must first be referred to Cabinet as must all matters that Cabinet itself has decided should come to it. In general, if a matter is not a routine matter it must be referred to Cabinet for its consideration by way of a Cabinet Memorandum,” she explained.

The Minister said the President can also determine when a decision that has been referred to him should be discussed in Cabinet first.

“This envisages that the President himself may determine that a President’s Minute referred to him for signature…should in fact go to the Cabinet first and, accordingly, refer it back to the Minister to take to the Cabinet.

“This is an approach which is accepted by the Cabinet as its way of “acting together with the President” when he exercises executive authority under the Constitution,” Ntshavheni said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Thu, 07/04/2024 - 13:27

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Lesufi announces Gauteng Cabinet

Location: News

Lesufi announces Gauteng Cabinet

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has announced his Cabinet that will lead the seventh administration of the provincial government.

The new provincial Cabinet was announced on Wednesday evening.

“Today, we bring to you the new leadership and Members of the Executive Council (MEC), assigned to steer the ship towards a better Gauteng.

“The team, will from this week, start their work of consolidating the election manifestoes of our different parties so that we can develop a shared vision for Gauteng, a shared vision of prosperity, a shared vision of service delivery, a shared vision to eliminate crime, corruption and lawlessness,” he said.

The new MECs are:

  • MEC for e-Government is Bonginkosi Dlamini.
  • MEC for Finance and Economic Development is Lebogang Maile.
  • MEC for Education and Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation is Matome Chiloane.
  • MEC for Health and Wellness is Nomantu Nkomo Ralehoko.
  • MEC for Roads and Transport is Kedibone Diale-Tlabela.
  • MEC for Human Settlements is Tasneem Motara.
  • MEC for Social Development is Faith Mazibuko.
  • MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development is Vuyiswa Ramokgopa.
  • MEC for Infrastructure Development and Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs is Jacob Mamabolo.
  • MEC for Environment is Sheila Mary Peters.

Lesufi explained that the formerly stand alone Department of Community Safety will now move to the Office of the Premier in a bid to strengthen the fight against crime.

“The fight against crime is going to be the centre of this government. We are migrating this responsibility to the Office of the Premier so that we can lead and champion the fight against crime, corruption and lawlessness.

“We can’t surrender our province to criminals. We can’t be scared of our own shadows and convert our own houses to be prisons because criminals are doing as they wish. We strongly believe the utilisation of creative ways of technology, innovation and the increase of personnel to fight crime in our province must be a priority.

“If there is one priority for the seventh administration and the government of Gauteng in the next five years, it’s our relentless efforts to confront and fight crime head on,” he said.

Government of Provincial Unity

The provincial executive is constituted of members from different political parties – forming a Government of Provincial Unity (GPU).

The political parties represented in the provincial cabinet are the African National Congress, the Inkatha Freedom Party, Rise Mzansi and the Patriotic Alliance.

According to Lesufi, other political formations party to the GPU “chose to use the Gauteng Provincial Legislature as their terrain of operation”.

The formation of the GPU was necessitated after no political party received an outright majority following the National and Provincial Elections in May.

The Premier emphasised that although the MECs hail from different parties, they remain committed to serving the people of Gauteng.

“We accept, without any conditions the outcome of our elections and the desires of our electorate that all political parties must work together to run our provincial government. In doing so, we must be matured; we must be sober; we must understand each other at all times. These are uncharted waters; these are opportunities that are presented to us by our voters.

“We’ve been asked to work together - to work together we will do. We’ve been asked to combine our thoughts for a better Gauteng - to combine our thoughts, we will do, together. We’ve been asked to leave no one behind. Today, we all declare that no one, will be left behind unless they choose not to be part of the [GPU].

“I want to emphasise this: there is no door that is closed. This door will be permanently open and those that want to join [the GPU] will be free to join it,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Thu, 07/04/2024 - 10:13

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Now the work begins: DP, Ministers and Deputy Ministers sworn in

Location: News

Now the work begins: DP, Ministers and Deputy Ministers sworn in

The new Deputy President, Ministers and Deputy Ministers of the seventh administration have been sworn into office in Cape Town.

The cohort took their oath of office or solemn affirmation in a ceremony officiated by Chief Justice Raymond Zondo on Wednesday.

WATCH | 

President Cyril Ramaphosa and Deputy President Paul Mashatile watched on and congratulated the new Ministers and Deputy Ministers that he appointed in terms of the powers vested in him by the Constitution.

Addressing members of the media following the swearing-in ceremony, President Ramaphosa said the ceremony was a historic moment.

“It has been a very difficult and complicated process. It’s now come to an end and to a start. It’s a fresh start for all of us in South Africa. Today was a historic moment in constituting the Executive of our country in the form of Ministers and Deputy Ministers, who have all collectively been assuring me… that they are going to work and they are going to make South Africans proud.

“The trust that our people have invested in all these men and women... We will not waste time. We will work very hard to take our country forward,” he said.

The first to take the oath of office was Deputy President Paul Mashatile.

In taking the oath, the Deputy President said: “In the presence of everyone assembled here, and in full realisation of the high calling I assume as Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa, I, Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile, swear that I will be faithful to the Republic of South Africa and will obey, observe, uphold and maintain the Constitution and all other law of the Republic; and I solemnly and sincerely promise that I will always promote all that will advance the Republic, and oppose all that may harm it;

  • be a true and faithful counsellor;
  • discharge my duties with all my strength and talents to the best of my knowledge and ability and true to the dictates of my conscience;
  • do justice to all; and
  • devote myself to the well-being of the Republic and all of its people

“So help me God."

Then it was the turn of the newly minted executive to take the oath of office or solemn affirmation.

The oath or affirmation compels them – amongst others – to be faithful to the Republic of South Africa and to uphold the Constitution and all other laws while in office.

See our Special Feature | Meet the new Cabinet 

New path

Unlike previously, the new Ministers and Deputy Ministers are from an array of political parties as a result of the formation of the Government of National Unity.

The cohort boasts some of South Africa’s youngest minds to enter office, including the Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, 34; new Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Nonceba Mhlauli, also 34; Finance Deputy Minister Ashor Sarupen, 36 and 32-year-old Deputy Minister of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, Zuko Godlimpi.

On social media platform X, Gwarube said: “Thank you all for the well wishes! Being appointed the Minister of Basic Education is a massive responsibility that I do not take lightly. The future of the country rests on how well this department that I lead does its work.”

New faces to the Cabinet include Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen, Minister of Home Affairs Leon Schreiber and Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies Solly Malatsi.

In a post on X, Schreiber said: “It is my honour to be appointed as Minister of Home Affairs for the Republic of South Africa. I pledge to serve you to the best of my abilities and in a spirit of collaboration, to demonstrate that South Africans can fix even the most intractable problems when we work together.”

There are some returning faces to South Africa’s Cabinet and deputy ministries.

These include Sihle Zikalala, who will be serving as Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI).

Zikalala served as Minister of that department during the sixth administration.

“As we continue this work, we do so with a steadfast commitment to put maximum efforts towards bettering the poor and work with all stakeholders.

“Together, we must make relentless strides to address unemployment, poverty and inequality. I congratulate the new Minister of DPWI, Dean MacPherson, and wish him all the best in his new assignment and look forward to working with him,” Zikalala said in a statement.

At the end of the swearing-in ceremony, Director General in the Presidency, Phindile Baleni, wished the leaders of the seventh administration well.

“Congratulations to the new National Executive and the Deputy Ministers on your appointment. We wish you well in your duties and endeavours to create a better South Africa and a better world,” Baleni said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 07/03/2024 - 14:34

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Read moreNow the work begins: DP, Ministers and Deputy Ministers sworn in

‘Unprecedented’ Government of National Unity to roll up its sleeves

Location: News

'Unprecedented' Government of National Unity to roll up its sleeves

President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially announced his new cabinet and South Africa is now firmly into the seventh administration - led by what the President has termed an “unprecedented” Government of National Unity (GNU).

The President announced the members of cabinet on Sunday evening, about a month after the National and Provincial Elections were held on 29 May 2024.

“The incoming government will prioritise rapid, inclusive and sustainable economic growth and the creation of a more just society by tackling poverty and inequality,” President Ramaphosa assured the country, as he addressed the nation from the Union Buildings in Pretoria.

This year’s General Election results produced no outright majority winner – tasking various  political leaders to work together to form a government, much like what was required at the dawn of democracy in 1994.

Some 11 political formations have come together and signed a Statement of Intent to work together to form a GNU, reflective of the representatives from those parties.

“The establishment of the Government of National Unity in its current form is unprecedented in the history of our democracy. We have had to consider how to form the new government in a manner that advances the national interest, that gives due consideration to the outcome of the election and that makes use of the respective capabilities within each of the parties.

“We have had to consider not only the immediate needs of the country. We have also had to consider the stability, effectiveness and durability of the government we are establishing,” he said.

WATCH | Cabinet announcement 

 

READ| Meet SA's new cabinet

Serving all South Africans

With Ministers and Deputy Ministers now coming from a plethora of parties, President Ramaphosa told the nation that those appointed to those positions will work to serve all South Africans and not just those who voted for them.

“These men and women we have appointed to the executive are drawn from all corners of our country. They reflect the diversity of our nation. They have a responsibility to work together to serve the people as a whole.

“None of the members of the National Executive has been appointed to serve the interests of a particular constituency, a particular party or a particular section of society,” he said.

Strengthening democracy

Turning to the length of time it has taken to form a cabinet, President Ramaphosa soothed concerned South Africans – pointing out that other countries have taken longer to walk the same path.

“[Many] people have pointed to the experiences of other countries that have a far longer history of democracy, where the formation of multi-party governments have sometimes taken several months.

“As a relatively young democracy, we should be proud that we have moved to establish a government comprised of eleven parties within such a short space of time.

“Through our discussions we have been able to build consensus on the tasks of government. We have shown that there are no problems that are too difficult or too intractable that they cannot be solved through dialogue,” he emphasised. 

National Dialogue

With the cabinet announced, a National Dialogue is expected to be convened by the incoming GNU and other formations in the “spirit of partnership and collaboration”.

“Through this National Dialogue, all parties, civil society groups, labour, business and other stakeholders will be invited to work together to address the critical challenges facing the nation.

“We call on all South Africans to participate in the National Dialogue and to give their support to this Government of National Unity as it begins its work.

“As the leaders of political parties, as Ministers and Deputy Ministers, as public representatives, we understand and accept the responsibility that we bear. We have all been called upon to serve the people of this country, and we will do so to the utmost of our ability,” President Ramaphosa concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Sun, 06/30/2024 - 23:22

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President Ramaphosa to announce new National Executive

Location: News

President Ramaphosa to announce new National Executive

President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to announce a new National Executive this evening, 30 June 2024, at 9pm.

The announcement, which will be in the form of a televised address to the nation, follows the inauguration of President Ramaphosa on Wednesday, 19 June 2024, which in turn followed the President’s election by the National Assembly on Friday, 14 June.

The new National Executive will constitute the seventh Democratic Administration as a Government of National Unity, comprising a diversity of political parties as an outcome of the National and Provincial Elections held on Wednesday, 29 May 2024.

The SABC will provide a content feed to all media and PresidencyZA will also live stream the proceedings. – SAnews.gov.za

Matona
Sun, 06/30/2024 - 16:49

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N Cape Premier says new administration will modernise province, grow economy

Location: News

N Cape Premier says new administration will modernise province, grow economy

Northern Cape Premier, Dr Zamani Saul, says the seventh administration remains committed to modernising the province, boosting the economy and ensuring its success.

“This will be done with much greater speed and underpinned by the six priority areas of the 2024 ANC election manifesto,” Saul said on Monday. 

These priority areas, he said, include creating jobs, building industries for an inclusive economy, tackling the high cost of living, investing in people, defending democracy and advancing freedom, and building a better Africa.

The Premier was delivering his inauguration speech in the Northern Cape Provincial Legislature in Kimberley.

The address follows the first sitting of the Provincial Legislature on 14 June 2024, where Saul was sworn in as the seventh democratically elected Premier of the Northern Cape. 

He outlined his vision and plans for this seventh administration in his speech. 

Progress

Saul believes government has made significant progress in delivering basic services to the poor.  

“Before 1994, many communities were deprived of basic services, which included clean running water, electricity, housing and education. Since the dawn of our democracy, we have reduced the backlog of basic services and have improved living conditions for many citizens.”

In addition, he said the total number of households in the Northern Cape with access to flush toilets increased to 73% in 2022. 

“This indicates a huge improvement in the provision of basic services. We have indeed improved the quality of public education and all indicators attest to that.” 

Meanwhile, he said, in his province, the proportion of people aged between five and 24 who attend an education institution increased from 64.2% to 70.3% in 2022. 

“This represents the largest increase in attendance observed in all provinces. The percentage of persons aged 20 years and older without schooling in the Northern Cape declined from 22.7% to 6.7% in 2022.”

Saul said he was glad that the country had surpassed three months with no load shedding, which he believes is a clear indication power cuts will become a thing of the past.

Unity

He acknowledged that the sixth administration was riddled with challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the aftermath of State Capture. 

“As a party and government, we have learnt from our mistakes and want to assure the people of the Northern Cape that we will do anything possible to close the trust deficit. We will do things differently – it won’t be business as usual.”

The next five years, he said, will require intensive engagement with political parties, civil society, the private sector, academia, and all spheres of government.

“The seventh administration will work tirelessly to bring all stakeholders together towards the realisation of the Northern Cape Provincial Growth and Development Plan Vision 2040 for the realisation of a modern, growing, and successful province. This plan outlines a bold and ambitious path to transform our province into one that provides opportunities for all.”

He also touched on the youth, who comprised about 60% of the population.

“They are crucial to the current and future development of our country, particularly this province. We should actively involve young people in the development initiatives of the province as co-creators. We should continue to give special attention to addressing the challenging circumstances our young people face.”

Last month, he said the province introduced the Labour Activation Programme through the Unemployment Insurance Fund of the Department of Labour.

This programme will offer skills development opportunities valued at over R545 million to benefit 23 000 unemployed young people in the province.

Government of national unity

The Premier believes that the government of national unity (GNU) marks a new era where diverse parties cooperate to improve the citizens' lives and foster national solidarity. 

“We are entering uncharted waters, with a capable captain, His Excellency President Ramaphosa, to take the country through this murky situation,” he told the attendees. 

As the Premier, he committed to lead with honesty, empathy, and hard work. 

“Following the national goals that the President has set forth, we will work together to give economic growth, job creation, social welfare, infrastructure development, and good governance priority.”

He pleaded for support and vowed to work with the provincial administration to create a better future for the people of the Northern Cape. 

Saul also outlined improved outcomes in education and health as key priorities. 

“Let us continuously collaborate, motivated by the spirit of progress and solidarity that characterises our country at this critical moment.” – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Wed, 06/26/2024 - 10:58

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Parliament begins setting up internal structures

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Parliament begins setting up internal structures

With the election of the Presiding Officers and the inauguration of the new President done and dusted, the seventh Parliament will now shift focus to establishing internal structures necessary for Parliament to function.

Among the activities that will unfold are the Rules Committees of the National Assembly (NA) and National Council of Provinces (NCOP) meetings.

“These committees will establish the structures necessary for the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces to function. They also decide on the constitution of the two Houses’ respective committees, the formula for whips, speaking time during debates, and the number of Members that will serve on a committee.

“Whips are important figures in the parliamentary system as they are responsible for discipline within the political parties and ensuring that Members attend and participate in parliamentary sessions. The formula for whips is a strategic determination that influences the dynamics of parliamentary proceedings. On the other hand, setting of speaking times is crucial for maintaining order and decorum in the Houses and ensuring that discussions are productive and focused,” Parliament said.

Constituting the oversight committees is guided by the Cabinet portfolios designated by the President as the committees exercise oversight over each government department.

Parliament said committees are essential in scrutinising the work of government, providing a platform for debate, and ensuring accountability.

“President Cyril Ramaphosa in consultation with the Speaker of the National Assembly (NA) Thoko Didiza and the Chairperson of the NCOP Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane will set the date for the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA).

“The OPA is an important ceremony in the form of a joint sitting of the two Houses that marks the official opening of the seventh Parliament. Unlike the State of the Nation Address that takes place annually in February, the OPA occurs once every five years after elections to announce the new administration’s plans, and it marks the beginning of the new parliamentary term,” Parliament said.

The joint sitting for the Opening of Parliament Address will be at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) in light of the ongoing construction.

The CTICC has been chosen for its capacity, convenience and proximity to the Parliament precinct.

Programme of the new Parliament

Once all the structures of the two Houses are established, the Joint Programming Committee will convene to deliberate on the parliamentary programme.

“The Joint Programming Committee plays a vital role in laying the groundwork for a productive legislative session as it is responsible for drawing up a programme for the first term of the new Parliament. The programme outlines the schedule and priorities for parliamentary activities, ensuring a structured and efficient approach to legislative and oversight responsibilities,” Parliament said.

Orientation programme for MPs

The newly elected Members of Parliament (MPs) will also undergo a structured orientation programme from 2 July to 5 July to induct them into their new roles.

The programme will cover a wide range of topics, including an introduction to the core business of Parliament, the roles and responsibilities of Members and Office Bearers, an overview of MPs’ ethics and disclosures, the Rules guiding the operations of each House, and those that guide Joint Sittings.

“Following the success of the first sittings of the two Houses, the seventh parliamentary administration is ready to take the reins and ensure that Parliament fulfils its constitutional mandate of oversight over the executive and providing a platform for the voice of South Africans in government policy and implementation,” Parliament said.

Meetings and activities scheduled for this week are as follows:

  • On Wednesday, both Houses will hold their respective Rules Committee meetings. The NCOP Rules Committee meeting will start at 10:00, and the NA Rules Committee meeting is scheduled for 15:00.
  • On Thursday at 14:00, the NCOP will convene a hybrid plenary to elect various office bearers for the seventh Parliament, including the Permanent Deputy Chairperson of the NCOP, the Rotating Deputy Chairperson, the Programming Whip, the House Chairperson for Committees and Oversight, the House Chairperson for Parliamentary Diplomacy, the House Chairperson for Internal Arrangements and Members Support, and several other critical positions.
  • During the same session, the Council will also hold elections for the NCOP Permanent Delegates (MPs) to the Pan-African Parliament. Additionally, they will designate members to serve in the Southern African Development Community Parliamentary Forum, the Judicial Services Commission, the Magistrates Commission, and the Political Office-Bearers Pension Fund Trustee. The Council will also consider and deliberate on the revival of the Appropriations Bill.
  • On the same day the Council will convene in the morning and hold the Programming Committee at 08:30. The Programming Committee considers Bills before the House, committee reports and plans the business of the House and the programme. On Friday, the NA at 10:00 will hold its programming meeting.
  • The Pan-African Parliament (PAP) will convene its first of the two annual Plenary Sessions from 24 June to 5 July 2024 at the PAP precinct in Midrand. Among the critical items for discussion and consideration is the budget for the PAP to enable the institution to function optimally.

- SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Mon, 06/24/2024 - 10:02

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World leaders congratulate President Ramaphosa

Location: News

World leaders congratulate President Ramaphosa

Leaders around the world have rallied behind President Cyril Ramaphosa and offered their congratulations after his inauguration as President of South Africa for a second term, on Wednesday.

Yesterday, international and local guests filled the Union Buildings’ Nelson Mandela Amphitheatre in Pretoria to witness President Ramaphosa take his oath of office.

This, after he was re-elected to serve for a second term on Friday last week at the first sitting of the National Assembly since the highly contested elections in May where he won 283 votes, against Economic Freedom Fighters leader Julius Malema who received 44.

United States Ambassador Reuben Brigety congratulated Cyril Ramaphosa on his inauguration as the President of South Africa.

“Witnessing your vibrant democracy is an honour,” he wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Speaking to SAnews yesterday, the diplomat described the Presidential inauguration as “historic” and wished the seventh administration all the best as it works for the good of the nation.

Meanwhile, United States President Joe Biden applauded President Ramaphosa on his re-election as President of South Africa.

President Biden commended all the political parties for working together to form a government of national unity (GNU).

“I also send my warm wishes to the people of South Africa. This year – as South Africa celebrates 30 years of all citizens having the right to vote – they have demonstrated the enduring power of government of the people, by the people, and for the people.

“I look forward to the United States and South Africa continuing our work together, to expand economic opportunity, invest in clean energy solutions, and demonstrate that democracy delivers,” President Biden added.

Zimbabwe President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who attended the swearing-in ceremony, took to X to wish South Africa’s First Citizen all the best as he leads the new administration.

“Today, I had the immense honour of attending the Presidential inauguration of His Excellency, President Cyril Ramaphosa.

“Congratulations, President Ramaphosa, on this remarkable achievement. It is a privilege to be part of this historical event and I look forward to working with you for the continued strength and unity between our nations,” he wrote.

Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated President Ramaphosa on his re-election.

“Warm congratulations, Excellency Cyril Ramaphosa on your re-election as the President of the Republic of South Africa. I look forward to working with you to further strengthen the India-South Africa strategic partnership,” said the Prime Minister of India.

On Monday, Russian President Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with President Ramaphosa to congratulate him on his re-election.

“The President expressed hope that Russia and South Africa would continue their joint work to further strengthen their strategic partnership across the board. Vladimir Putin also sent a congratulatory telegram to Cyril Ramaphosa,” his Office said on his official website.

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu also extended his warm congratulations to the President on his re-election.

He applauded South Africans on the peaceful and successful conduct of the General Elections.

“While wishing President Ramaphosa a successful term in office, President Tinubu calls for the strengthening of bilateral ties between Nigeria and South Africa as strategic partners in Africa for the overall advancement of the continent,” Special Adviser to the President, Chief Ajuri Ngelale, added. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Thu, 06/20/2024 - 12:13

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GNU to advance the interest of all South Africans

Location: News

GNU to advance the interest of all South Africans

The Government of National Unity is keen on advancing the interest of all South Africans while also creating employment, President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Wednesday.

“We want to create jobs. We are going to get everyone in the Government of National Unity to create jobs. I am going to make sure that it happens,” the President said in his address to the crowds gathered on the South Lawns of the Union Buildings.

This after taking his Oath of Office as President, marking the advent of the seventh administration.

In his address to those gathered at the South Lawns, the President said the Government of National Unity (GNU) will advance the interests of all South Africans.

“Today we are opening a new chapter in the life of our country. We are going to have a government of national unity where we are going to work together united so that we can advance your interests. Let us not be afraid of what this government of national unity is going to be all about.”

Chief Justice Raymond Zondo administered the President’s oath during Wednesday’s inauguration ceremony.

President Ramaphosa also called on all political parties in the GNU to join hands in advancing the interests of all South Africans.

“The people of South Africa did not give one political party power to rule this country, the people of South Africa wanted a Government of National Unity to rule this country,” President Ramaphosa said.

Many ordinary South Africans turned out to witness the inauguration ceremony attended by the country’s former Presidents as well as members of the international community.

READ | Government of National Unity: A moment of profound significance

While this year's General Election results produced no outright majority winner, the requirement for leaders of different formations to work together is not too unsimilar to what the country had to do to find its way at the inception of democracy.

Addressing the public in his inaugural speech, and essentially the world at large who had been following developments in the country, President Ramaphosa on Wednesday said the formation of the Government of National Unity is a moment of profound significance.

“It is the beginning of a new era,” the President said in his earlier address.

This year’s inauguration coincides with South Africa’s celebration of 30 years of freedom and democracy.

The 27th of April 2024 marked 30 years since the advent of democracy in South Africa. This day marked a historic milestone in South Africa, as all adults were allowed to cast their votes, for the first time, in a free and fair democratic election. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Thu, 06/20/2024 - 10:14

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Government of national unity provides opportunity to improve lives of citizens

Location: News

Government of national unity provides opportunity to improve lives of citizens

Gender activist, Dr Lesley Ann Foster, has expressed hope that the government of national unity will provide an opportunity for political parties to collaborate in addressing South Africa’s unemployment, slow economic growth and inequalities.

“This is a very significant moment. I feel quite emotional about it…We have had so much negativity and so many challenges that we have been facing that this gives us a ray of hope for change that will take us forward as a country,” Foster told SAnews on Wednesday at the Union Buildings.

Foster who is the founder and executive director of non-governmental organisation (NGO) Masimanyane Women's Rights International made these remarks ahead of the inauguration of President-elect Cyril Ramaphosa in Pretoria.

“We are excited about the possibility that this new administration [brings].  The most important thing about the government of national unity is that it is not about a particular party but about national unity. How do we bring all these people together to bring about progress and development? The most critical thing is about what can take the country forward,” she said.

Foster said the presence of dignitaries at the inauguration signifies that the international community honours and respects South Africa.

“They are coming to pay their respects to our new President and that is very significant for us that they are here to say we stand with you; we support you.”

With the inauguration representing the beginning of the seventh administration, Foster called for government to address corruption, unemployment and gender inequality.

“Government needs to deal decisively with corruption. They also need to work on the economic policies and look at how they can create jobs, particularly for the youth and the unemployed of our country; there is so many of them.

“I work in the gender sector. We have a huge challenge to address gender-based violence in this country. We have had very strong political commitments from President Ramaphosa in his previous administration. We are praying that it will happen again.”

She added that she was part of a collective of women that have written a statement to all political parties requesting that they address gender equality issues in this administration.

“We want them to address gender equality. We want the National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide to be put in place. We want issues on empowerment and our status in society to be addressed

“South African women still have very low status, even though they has been massive progress, we still have low status. They need to address that because until we are an equal society, poverty is going to be the big issue.

“We have a big problem around poverty, food insecurity and water insecurity. They have to address those issues very decisively because we are sitting on a smouldering peg and we can have an explosion at any time from the youth because they are dissatisfied,” Foster said.

This year’s inauguration coincides with South Africa’s celebration of 30 years of freedom and democracy.

READ | SA marks Inauguration Day

The 27th of April 2024 marked 30 years since the advent of democracy in South Africa. This day marked a historic milestone in South Africa, as all adults were allowed to cast their votes, for the first time, in a free and fair democratic election. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 06/19/2024 - 09:16

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Government of National Unity: A moment of profound significance

Location: News

Government of National Unity: A moment of profound significance

19 June 2024 is by no means an ordinary day in the collective landscape of South Africa. With President Cyril Ramaphosa having taken his Oath of Office, marking the start of the seventh administration, the country is now firmly in the fold of the creation of a Government of National Unity.

The recently concluded 29 May National and Provincial Elections, while having been conducted in a manner that has been deemed free and fair by the South African Human Rights Commission, among others, demonstrated the maturity of South Africa's democracy since its early steps in 1994. Even though the outcomes of the first democratic election made clear the resounding message of the masses, who had long battled for the right of political and societal agency, a Government of National Unity was formed to help the fragile populace to navigate the treacherous waters of a nation that was new to inclusivity.

While this year's General Election results produced no outright majority winner, the requirement for leaders of different formations to work together is not too unsimilar to what the country had to do to find its way at the inception of democracy. Today, leaders are required to carve a new path, one where cooperation amongst parties with different views have come together, and continue to do so, united in the single purpose of providing citizens with services that are aimed at improving their quality of life and building a sense of national solidarity.

Addressing the public in his inaugural speech, and essentially the world at large who had been following developments in the country, President Ramaphosa on Wednesday said the formation of the Government of National Unity is a moment of profound significance.

“It is the beginning of a new era,” President Ramaphosa said at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.

He said the Government of National Unity requires a common mission, which is anchored in safeguarding national unity, peace, stability, inclusive economic growth, non-racialism and non-sexism.

“Through the ballots that they have cast, the people of South Africa have made plain their expectation that the leaders of our country should work together."

President Ramaphosa said the people of South Africa have directed their representatives to put aside animosity and dissent, to abandon narrow interests and to pursue together only that which benefits the nation.

“As leaders, as political parties, we are called upon to work in partnership towards a growing economy, better jobs, safer communities and a government that works for its people.”

President Ramaphosa said from across the political spectrum, parties have answered that call.

“Understanding that no party can govern alone and make laws alone, these parties have agreed to work in partnership, to employ their talents for the good of the country and the progress of its people.

“Together, they have resolved to establish a government of national unity to pursue a common programme of fundamental and lasting change.

“As the leaders of this country came together in a Government of National Unity 30 years ago to forge a common future and build a united nation, the parties in the government of national unity of today have agreed to work together to address the most pressing challenges before our nation,” President Ramaphosa said.

President Ramaphosa said the parties have adopted a Statement of Intent, in which they have committed to pursue rapid, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, to create a more just society by tackling poverty, to safeguard the rights of workers, to stabilise government and to build state capacity and to pursue a foreign policy based on human rights, solidarity and peace.

“As South Africans, we must each do what we can to achieve this mission. We will invite all parties, civil society, labour, business and other formations to a National Dialogue on the critical challenges facing the nation,” the President said.

President Ramaphosa said the parties have made a commitment to invest in South Africa’s people through quality education and health care, to address crime and corruption, to strengthen social cohesion and build a united nation and the will of the people shall be done without any doubt or question.

“The voters of South Africa did not give any single party the full mandate to govern our country alone.

“We will seek, as we have done at so many important moments in our history, to forge a social compact to realise the aspirations of our National Development Plan.

“As individuals, as families, as communities and in our many formations, let us draw on our every strength to turn our dream for a better South African into reality,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Wed, 06/19/2024 - 13:43

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Read moreGovernment of National Unity: A moment of profound significance

‘We have heard you’ – President

Location: News

‘We have heard you’ – President

President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged all political parties to put their differences aside and work together, as South Africans, through the ballot, have spoken and made clear their needs for the seventh administration.

Ramaphosa was delivering his first speech as President and leader of the seventh administration, following his inauguration at the Union Buildings, in Tshwane, on Wednesday.

President Ramaphosa – to rousing applause – emphasised that South Africans have been unequivocal about what they now seek from leaders and for South Africa.

“[The] people of South Africa have stressed that they are impatient with political bickering and the endless blame game among politicians and political parties. They want us to put their needs and aspirations first and they want us to work together for the sake of our country.

“Today I stand before you as your humble servant to say we have heard you,” he said from the amphitheatre at the Union Buildings.

READ | The oath has been taken, President Ramaphosa is inaugurated

The President outlined key objectives that South Africans have voiced - including stimulating a growing and transformed economy, tackling crime, housing and infrastructure.

With these in mind, President Ramaphosa pledged that during his time in office, he will be a President for all.

“Today, I make a solemn commitment to be a President for all South Africans and not just some South Africans; to defend our Constitution and protect our democracy; to work with all those who share the dream of a better life for all; to care for the poor and the vulnerable, and to support all those who are in need; and to make our country stronger, more resilient, more equal and united,” the President affirmed.

South Africa will be led by a Government of National Unity following the National and Provincial Elections held on 29 May 2024 in which no political party received a clear majority.

“In their multitude, in voices that are many and diverse, the people of South Africa have voted and made known their wishes, their concerns and their expectations.

“We accept and respect the results of the elections and we once again say the people have spoken. Their will shall be done without any doubt or question,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Wed, 06/19/2024 - 13:48

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Read more‘We have heard you’ – President

Inauguration guests start arriving at the Union Buildings

Location: News

Inauguration guests start arriving at the Union Buildings

Excitement at the Union Buildings in Pretoria is palpable as packed buses have started dropping off guests and members of the public who will witness the inauguration of President-elect Cyril Ramaphosa later this morning.

Many braved the cold winter morning and started arriving early, with their hearts set on being present at the swearing-in of the President-elect Ramaphosa following his election by Parliament on Friday, 14 June 2024.

With the inauguration signifying the beginning of the President's second term of office Khula Community Development Project Director Petros Majola told SAnews civil society was ready to work with government for the best interests of communities.

“Today is a very big day, which comes after we have cast our vote. [This means that] we will have a government that will take us through for the next five years. We are ready to work with a government that will deliver in the best interests of our vulnerable groups, especially the victims of crimes and violence.

“After the inauguration, we expect delivery of services to those people (vulnerable groups) because those people have hope in the government that they voted for,” Majola said on Wednesday.

Avid sports fan Mama Joy Chauke told SAnews she was excited to see the President-elect Ramaphosa being inaugurated.

“Today is an important day for South Africa. I am here to witness our President being inaugurated and lead us…we are waiting for him to lead us. We are waiting for him to do the best and we are here to support him,” Chauke said.

The President-Elect will be sworn in by Chief Justice Raymond Zondo in the Union Buildings’ Nelson Mandela Amphitheatre.

The ceremony will be witnessed by South African and international guests, including South African royalty, Members of Parliament, representatives of political parties, leaders of organised labour, business and civil society organisations, religious leaders and South Africans who have excelled in various capacities and endeavours.

Attendees will include representatives of regional, continental and international organisations and bodies such as the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the African Union (AU) and the United Nations (UN).

President-Elect Ramaphosa will also be honoured by the attendance of a number of Heads of State and Government and former Heads of State and Government from different regions of Africa as well as other world regions.

To date, 18 Heads of State and Government, three former Heads of State and Government and nine Heads of Delegation are expected to attend. Additional confirmations are being received.

Countries that will be represented at a high level at the Inauguration include the Kingdom of eSwatini and Kingdom of Lesotho; the Republics of Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Namibia, Angola and Tanzania; the Republic of Uganda; the People’s Republic of China; the Arab Republic of Egypt; the State of Palestine and the Republic of Cuba.

 The theme for the occasion is “30 Years of Democracy, Partnership and Growth.” – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 06/19/2024 - 07:49

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Read moreInauguration guests start arriving at the Union Buildings

Heads of state, government and royalty to attend inauguration

Location: News

Heads of state, government and royalty to attend inauguration

Dignitaries from across the world – including current and former Heads of State and Governments – are expected to attend the inauguration ceremony of President-elect Cyril Ramaphosa on Wednesday.

This according to a statement released by the Presidency on Tuesday.

“The ceremony will be witnessed by South African and international guests, including South African royalty, Members of Parliament, representatives of political parties, leaders of organised labour, business and civil society organisations, religious leaders and South Africans who have excelled in various capacities and endeavours.

“Attendees will include representatives of regional, continental and international organisations and bodies such as the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the African Union (AU) and the United Nations (UN),” the statement read.

The Presidency said at least 18 Heads of State and Government, three former Heads of State and Government and nine Heads of Delegation are expected to attend.

Additional confirmations are being received.

“Countries that will be represented at a high level at the inauguration include the Kingdom of eSwatini and Kingdom of Lesotho, the Republics of Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Namibia, Angola and Tanzania; the Republic of Uganda, the People’s Republic of China, the Arab Republic of Egypt, the State of Palestine and the Republic of Cuba,” the Presidency said.

The President-elect held a walkabout at the venue on Tuesday afternoon to assess the state of readiness.

Members of the public are encouraged to use the park and ride at Tshwane Showgrounds. People can park their cars and take a free bus to the Union Buildings.

The programme for the day will commence with a cultural programme for members of the public on the South Lawns of the Union Buildings at 9am.

Formal proceedings will get underway at 11am.

For more information go to https://inauguration2024.dcdt.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Tue, 06/18/2024 - 14:24

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Read moreHeads of state, government and royalty to attend inauguration

Inauguration Day not a public holiday, says Presidency

Location: News

Inauguration Day not a public holiday, says Presidency

The Presidency has reminded members of the public that Wednesday, 19 June - the day of the Presidential Inauguration - is a normal working day.

This as the Inauguration of President-Elect Cyril Ramaphosa will take place at the Union Buildings in Pretoria, following his re-election by Parliament on Friday, 14 June 2024.

READ | President-elect reiterates commitment to uplifting South Africa

People travelling to the event and to Pretoria on other business are advised to visit www.gov.za and www.tshwane.gov.za for information on road closures in the Rietondale/Arcadia area, and to follow traffic updates on radio and television broadcasts.

For a detailed report on road closures and free park-and-ride services, please read: Road closures for Presidential inauguration | Free park and ride for the Presidential inauguration.

The swearing in of the President-Elect will be conducted by Chief Justice Raymond Zondo in the Union Buildings’ Nelson Mandela Amphitheatre.

The ceremony will be witnessed by South African and international guests, including South African royalty, Members of Parliament, representatives of political parties, leaders of organised labour, business and civil society organisations, religious leaders and South Africans who have excelled in various capacities and endeavours.

Attendees will include representatives of regional, continental and international organisations and bodies such as the Southern African Development Community, the African Union (AU) and the United Nations. – SAnews.gov.za

Matona
Tue, 06/18/2024 - 14:36

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Read moreInauguration Day not a public holiday, says Presidency

2024 Presidential Inauguration

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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The Inauguration of President-Elect Cyril Ramaphosa will take place at the Union Buildings, Pretoria, tomorrow following his re-election by Parliament on Friday, 14 June 2024.

The swearing-in of the President-Elect will be conducted by Chief Justice Raymond Zondo in the Union Buildings' Nelson Mandela Amphitheatre.

The ceremony will be witnessed by South African and international guests, including South African royalty, Members of Parliament, representatives of political parties, leaders of organised labour, business and civil society organisations, religious leaders and South Africans who have excelled in various capacities and endeavours.

Attendees will include representatives of regional, continental and international organisations and bodies such as the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the African Union (AU) and the United Nations (UN).

President-Elect Ramaphosa will also be honoured by the attendance of a number of Heads of State and Government and former Heads of State and Government from different regions of Africa as well as other world regions.

To date, 18 Heads of State and Government, three former Heads of State and Governmen,t and nine Heads of Delegation are expected to attend. Additional confirmations are being received.

Countries that will be represented at a high level at the Inauguration include the Kingdom of eSwatini and Kingdom of Lesotho; the Republics of Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Namibia, Angola and Tanzania; the Republic of Uganda; the People's Republic of China; the Arab Republic of Egypt; the State of Palestine and the Republic of Cuba.

The theme for the occasion is “30 Years of Democracy, Partnership and Growth”.

The programme for the day will commence with a cultural programme for members of the public on the South Lawns of the Union Buildings at 09h00.

The cultural programme is a platform for local artists to showcase their talent and for us as a nation to share South Africa's cultural diversity with our guests.

This production will feature a combination of music genres and other cultural and artistic performances that will have a cross-over appeal that reflects our achievements in the past 30 years of our democracy.

During the formal proceedings from 11h00, the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) will perform the ceremonial elements of the Inauguration as a demonstration of allegiance to the Republic and the Commander-In-Chief. The ceremonial elements will include:

  • a 21-gun salute,
  • A salute flight by the South African Air Force (SAAF),
  • Inspection of a South African National Defence Force (SANDF) Battalion,
  • A Battalion march past, and
  • A massed fly past.

The newly sworn-in President of the Republic will deliver his Inaugural Address.

President-Elect Ramaphosa first became President of the Republic following the resignation of President Jacob Zuma in February 2018.

Following the 2019 National and Provincial Elections, President Ramaphosa was elected by the National Assembly as President of the Republic.

President Ramaphosa was re-elected by the National Assembly on 14 June 2024.

The Presidential Inauguration will be broadcast and streamed on a broad range of platforms nationally and internationally and The Presidency invites South Africans to follow this event.

Members of the public are advised to note that tomorrow, Wednesday, 19 June 2024, is a normal working day.

People travelling to the event and to Pretoria on other business are advised to visit www.gov.za and www.tshwane.gov.za for information on road closures in the Rietondale/Arcadia area, and to follow traffic updates on radio and television broadcasts. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

Read more2024 Presidential Inauguration