Cape Town – Parliament is gearing up for a week of significant events as President Cyril Ramaphosa prepares to deliver the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) on Thursday.
This address marks the start of the new five-year parliamentary term, distinct from the annual State of the Nation Address (SONA).
Scheduled on Nelson Mandela International Day, the OPA will outline the new administration’s plans.
“According to the new Joint Rules of Parliament, the OPA is now distinct from the State of the Nation Address (SONA). The SONA is held annually in February to outline the government’s plans and priorities for the year and report on the state of the nation.
President’s Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) is among the highlights on Parliament’s agenda for the week. Also on the agenda are more mini plenaries on budget votes and public hearings on the 2024 Appropriation Bill. #7thParliament #30YearsofDemocracy pic.twitter.com/Ip2o7WJ5BD
— Parliament of RSA (@ParliamentofRSA) July 14, 2024
“The OPA, on the other hand, occurs once every five years, after elections, to announce the new administration’s plans and to mark the beginning of the new five-year parliamentary term.
“The OPA coincides with Nelson Mandela International Day – an annual global celebration on 18 July to honour the life and legacy of former President Nelson Mandela by emulating his exemplary and selfless service to humanity,” Parliament said in a statement.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
