Parliament ready to enforce new joint sitting rules on Thursday

The rules were reinforced following repeated disruptions of the State of the Nation Address in the past, particularly by the EFF.

She addressed the media on the state of readiness to host the 2024 Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) on Thursday. 

“The joint rules also aim to maintain order and decorum in the chamber while promoting civility among members,” Didiza said.

“Key provisions of the new rules prohibit members from interrupting the president during the Opening of Parliament Address and further stipulate that this joint sitting must focus solely on the specific business for which it is convened,” she added.

On Thursday morning,  the City of Cape Town was heavily secured by various law enforcement agencies, especially around the Cape Town City Hall, where President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver his address, marking the beginning of the seventh term of Parliament.

Despite concerns about possible disruptions by the EFF or the MK Party, neither of which are part of the government of national unity, Didiza stated that no threats to boycott the sitting have been received.

"The issue with regards to whether there are any members of Parliament who will boycott the sitting? As far as we know, for now, no one has indicated that they will boycott," said Didiza.

“The Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) serves as a pivotal platform for the President to articulate the administration's comprehensive plans and long-term vision for the upcoming five-year term.

“[OPA] symbolises the continuity of democratic governance and sets the stage for legislative and executive collaboration in addressing national challenges and pursuing the country's development goals," she said.

The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) has also confirmed its readiness to manage security.

National police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said NATJOINTS successfully policed several major events this year alone, including the 2024 national and provincial elections.

"It is worth noting that throughout the policing of all these events, stability prevailed throughout the country, and no major incidents and no disruptions were reported. 

“This is a direct result of the competence and capabilities of the country’s law enforcement agencies, which are coordinated and led by the NATJOINTS. 

“It is against this background that the NATJOINTS is confident of the measures it has put in place to ensure the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA)," she said.

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