‘No disruption’ expected ahead of SONA
National Assembly Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula and the National
Council of Provinces chair Amos Masondo addressed the media on Tuesday on the
preparations for the State of the Nation Address.
During a question-and-answer session, Masondo said they were not anticipating any disruption to the event.
“We’re not really anticipating any disruption, but everything possible will be done to ensure that the SONA happens, in a way that is positive and to ensure overall that all goes well.”
This comes as some political parties vow to emerge in full numbers at the SONA despite Covid-19 protocols and the state of ‘caution’ the country has been under since the July unrests and the recent fire that gutted parts of parliament.
Mapisa-Nqakula said some 200 MPs will be seated in the chamber during Thursday’s event.
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“In keeping with government regulations to manage the spread of Covid-19, a total of 298 MPs will be seated in the chamber, while a limited number of 70 representatives of other arms of State, spheres of government, dignitaries and media will be allowed in the gallery.
After the President’s address, the two Houses of Parliament will debate the address over two days, 14-15 February, and the President will reply on 16 February.
“As the Presiding Officers of Parliament, we continue to be highly concerned by the torching of state buildings, including our Parliament.”
“We have been in discussion with the SAPS to ensure that this Hall is secured,” adds Mapisa-Nqakula
