Opening of Parliament Address ‘a powerful symbol of our nation’s ability to overcome adversity’ — Speaker Didiza

17 Jul 2024

This year’s Opening of Parliament Address coincides with two momentous occasions: the 30th anniversary of South Africa’s constitutional democracy and Nelson Mandela Day.

The stage is set for this year’s Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) and more than 900 media personnel have been accredited to attend the event, which begins at 7pm on Thursday, 18 July at the Cape Town City Hall.

All democratic SA’s former presidents and their deputies have been invited — including Jacob Zuma. Former Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, who is out on bail for allegedly soliciting bribes, was also invited.

The Secretary of Parliament, Xolile George, said the budget for the address was between R6-million and R14-million. During its last sitting, in February, Parliament budgeted R8.4-million for the event. “The actual expenditure may be less or slightly more,” said George.

On Wednesday, Speaker of the National Assembly Thoko Didiza addressed the media on Parliament’s readiness to host President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Opening of Parliament Address.

Read more: Ramaphosa to set ground rules for Government of National Unity at weekend Cabinet lekgotla

“The OPA is a significant event in our nation’s democratic process, convened by the President in accordance with Section 84 of the Constitution,” said Didiza.

The address, she said, was a platform for the President to articulate the administration’s comprehensive plans and long-term vision for the upcoming five-year term.

The event coincides with the 30th anniversary of South Africa’s constitutional democracy and Nelson Mandela Day.

“It provides us with an opportunity to reflect on the progress made since the inception of democratic governance in our country and to determine the path that we want to travel in the next five years in the advancement of our democratic project,” said Didiza.

Order and decorum

The theme for the 2024 Opening of Parliament Address is “My Parliament, My Voice, My Future,” reflecting the commitment to a people-centred Parliament and a collective future.

The event will include a display of military pageantry by the SANDF and a performance by the military choir.

It will celebrate South Africa’s rich cultural heritage with the inclusion of an imbongi, a traditional praise poet. Lutendo Evans Mugagadeli, widely known as “Vendaboy Poet,” will perform in Tshivenda.

“Vendaboy Poet’s performance promises to add a powerful cultural dimension to this significant national event,” said Didiza.

In addition to the ceremonial aspects, the address will promote the local economy through collaboration with Proudly South Africa and the fashion industry, encouraging attendees to wear locally produced attire.

Highlighting the importance of maintaining order and decorum, Didiza said the new joint rules adopted in November 2023 prohibit members of Parliament from interrupting the President during the address.

As the nation commemorates Nelson Mandela Day, Didiza said, “We encourage everyone to engage in meaningful and impactful acts of service to others, thereby changing the world around us.”

She underscored the significance of the Opening of Parliament Address as the beginning of the seventh term of the democratic Parliament.

“It serves as a powerful symbol of our nation’s ability to overcome adversity and continue the important work of governance.” DM

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Order and decorum