It’s all systems go for the South African State of the Nation Address
It’s hard to believe that everything is set in motion to have the South African State of Address on Friday, 16 February at 7pm. Here are some details on SONA.
After a dramatic week in the political sphere, newly-elected SA president Cyril Ramaphosa will be giving the State of the Nation Address today followed by the parliamentary debate.
Ramaphosa received a very warm welcome from political parties on Thursday, 15 February but some parties like the EFF pulled their usual antics and walked out.
The president-elect again reiterated his goal of bringing South Africans together and sending a message of unity to opposition parties.
The State of the Nation Address, is set to be a full ceremonial occasion once again.
Good morning South Africa! It’s a Friday and it’s all systems go for tonight’s #SoNA2018 at 7pm. pic.twitter.com/2Ieha0wMlq
— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) February 16, 2018
It will involve a ceremonial parade exhibiting military traditions, drills and ethos of the army, the navy and the air force of the Republic of South Africa. This includes a national salute by the Ceremonial Guard of the South African National Defence Force, a military band, a salute flight by the South African Air Force and a 21-gun salute.
Processions on the red carpet from the Slave Lodge to the National Assembly building will reflect the three arms of the state – the Judiciary, the Legislature and the Executive.
A total of 1 120 guests have been invited to form part of this important occasion.
#SONA2018 is an important event in the national political programme of Parliament, creating transparency with the public, & accountability on the part of #government. pic.twitter.com/n7hg13Y1T2
— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) February 15, 2018
Here are details of this week’s SONA:
When is SONA taking place?
Scheduled time: 7pm
Where to watch SONA?
Different media outlets will be streaming and airing SONA both online and on DStv. The State of the Nation Address will be broadcast live on: DStv Channel 408, SABC TV, eNCA, ANN7, SABC radio stations and Parliament’s YouTube Channel.
Watch live broadcast of #SONA2018 – click here https://t.co/w3Jo3DViRX pic.twitter.com/lSdjCZ8Fey
— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) February 15, 2018
What happens during the State of the Nation Address?
- The President sets out government’s key policy objectives and deliverables for the year ahead;
- It highlights the achievements and challenges experienced over the past year and maps the year ahead;
- It covers wide-ranging political, economic and social matters and considers the general state of South Africa;
- It deliberates on South Africa’s domestic affairs as well as its continental and international relations;
- The full address is recorded in the Minutes of Proceedings.
What happens after SONA?
SONA marks the opening of parliament and political parties will gather and get an opportunity to debate, comment and raise questions on matters addressed in the President’s speech during a debate on the President’s State of the Nation Address. This debate will likely take place over two days in a joint sitting next week.
Road Closures:
Temporary Road Closures and Parking Restrictions for the State of the Nation Address https://t.co/0xIbLgf2xz #SONA2018
— Parliament of RSA (@ParliamentofRSA) February 15, 2018
