By Doreen Mokgolo
- EFF promises not to disrupt SONA while DA pledges to fight for reform from within the new unity government.
- President to outline plans for jobs, growth and better government in R6-million address to parliament.
For the first time in years, South Africans can expect a subdued State of the Nation Address (SONA) without the usual dramatic theatrics that have characterised it in recent times.
The Thursday evening SONA may go smoothly after the EFF promised not to disrupt President Cyril Ramaphosa’s speech.
The party, known for causing chaos at SONA, says it expects more empty promises from the president when he speaks at 7 pm in Cape Town.
EFF spokesperson Sinawo Tambo told the media they will behave themselves, even though they don’t expect much from Ramaphosa.
The DA, now part of the Government of National Unity (GNU), says it will fight from within for jobs and growth.
“We may not always get our way; however, we will continue to fight for the reform agenda to generate economic growth and create jobs,” DA leader John Steenhuisen said on Wednesday.
MPs won’t be allowed to raise points of order during the speech, following Parliament’s 2022 decision to prevent disruptions.
The R6 million event will focus on A Nation That Works, for All and will outline the GNU’s three main goals: growing the economy, creating jobs, and building a better government.
Last week, Ramaphosa met with ministers and top officials at a Cabinet Lekgotla to check progress since the new government started in July. Tonight’s speech will include what they discussed.
Former presidents Thabo Mbeki, Kgalema Motlanthe, and Jacob Zuma are among the 2,000 guests expected to attend the joint sitting of Parliament.
Pictured above: President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Source: @CyrilRamaphosa
