Mbete kicks off SONA debate by addressing chaos
Members of Parliament is debating President Jacob Zuma's State of the Nation Address in the National Assembly.
Zuma's speech last week was marred by violence, insults and allegations of teargas being used inside the house.
Kick-starting proceedings, Speaker Baleka Mbete gave a report back on steps Parliament has taken since last week's chaotic scenes.
Mbete says an investigation is underway after a white powder was found inside the National Assembly.
"The item was retrieved and handed to the relevant authorities for testing and the results are still outstanding. We can confirm, however, it was not teargas or pepper spray," says Mbete.
Meanwhile, Mbete says allegations of cable ties allegedly intended to be used against MP's has been referred to the police for further investigations.
She also touched on the presence of armed soldiers.
"We wish to indicate that the Presiding Officers have written to the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans with a view to seeking clarification on the matter. We await the response of the Minister before we engage further on this," says Mbete.
On the use of insults, Mbete told MP's she did not hear anything, but called on parliamentarians to behave at all times.
"I would only wish to emphasise the point that insults and similar language do not serve to enhance the dignity of Parliament. This conduct sets a bad example to the nation," says Mbete.