Speaker unconcerned over disruption threats ahead of Sona
National Assembly Speaker Thandi Modise says a lack of space, rather than any possible disruptions, is her main concern ahead of the State of the Nation Address.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has vowed to disrupt proceedings on Thursday if President Cyril Ramaphosa does not fire Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan.
READ: Parliament 'erroneously' confirms Zuma's Sona attendance
“My biggest concern is that we are over-subscribed, that we might not have enough seats. Everyone who wants to come is on our back,” she told the media on the steps of the National Assembly on Thursday.
“We are aware that there is a threat to not make us start on time. We think we are not very worried, we have the joint rules and we will be able to deal with the situation as it arises.”
Modise says the police have been tasked to ensure people’s safety should violent scenes play out.
“Parliament is a critical infrastructure point. It means that at all times you have members of the police whose duty it is to ensure that life and property is secure.
That is their job.
“As far as the House is concerned, we have our rules in order. We think we’ll be able to manage and get by.
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