Cape Town – The seventh Parliament of South Africa is focusing on establishing the necessary internal structures for its function after the election of the Presiding Officers and the new President.
This involves meetings of the Rules Committees of both the National Assembly (NA) and the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) to decide on the constitution of committees, the formula for whips, speaking times during debates, and the number of members on each committee.
“These committees will establish the structures necessary for the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces to function. They also decide on the constitution of the two Houses’ respective committees, the formula for whips, speaking time during debates, and the number of Members that will serve on a committee.
“Whips are important figures in the parliamentary system as they are responsible for discipline within the political parties and ensuring that Members attend and participate in parliamentary sessions. The formula for whips is a strategic determination that influences the dynamics of parliamentary proceedings. On the other hand, setting of speaking times is crucial for maintaining order and decorum in the Houses and ensuring that discussions are productive and focused,” Parliament said.
Oversight committees will align with Cabinet portfolios to scrutinise government work, providing debate platforms and ensuring accountability.
“President Cyril Ramaphosa in consultation with the Speaker of the National Assembly (NA) Thoko Didiza and the Chairperson of the NCOP Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane will set the date for the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA).
“The OPA is an important ceremony in the form of a joint sitting of the two Houses that marks the official opening of the seventh Parliament. Unlike the State of the Nation Address that takes place annually in February, the OPA occurs once every five years after elections to announce the new administration’s plans, and it marks the beginning of the new parliamentary term,” Parliament said.
This ceremony will take place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) due to ongoing construction at the Parliament precinct.
The Joint Programming Committee will then develop the parliamentary programme, outlining the schedule and priorities for legislative and oversight responsibilities.
Newly elected Members of Parliament (MPs) will undergo an orientation program from July 2 to July 5 to familiarize them with their roles and parliamentary operations.
This week’s schedule includes:
- Rules Committee meetings for both Houses on Wednesday.
- A hybrid plenary session of the NCOP on Thursday to elect various office bearers and designate members to serve in different commissions and forums.
- Programming Committee meetings for the NCOP and the NA.
Additionally, the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) will hold its first Plenary Session from June 24 to July 5 in Midrand, focusing on its budget and institutional functions.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
