Watch live: Ramaphosa delivers Opening of Parliament Address

South Africa’s 7^th Parliament will officially be opened tonight with an address by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Following the general elections in May, a government of national unity was formed; the president, speaker and deputy speaker were elected; and cabinet ministers were appointed. At tonight’s event, the nation will hear about the priorities of the new government and what impact the changed political landscape will have on South Africa’s people.

Ramaphosa’s address is expected to start at 19:00 at the Cape Town City Hall.

The proceedings can be followed live here:

Previously called the Second State of the Nation Address, the Opening of Parliament Address happens every five years, following the national and provincial elections.

According to a statement by Parliament, the president will outline the priorities of the seventh administration and share its vision with South Africans.

“Importantly, the address also sets the tone for the legislative and administrative actions to follow. The address also symbolises the functioning of the new Parliament, reflecting the continuity and stability of governance.”

The statement reads that continuity and stability have been the hallmark of South Africa’s democracy since 1994.

“The incoming administration will be guided by existing plans, such as the National Development Plan and agreed-upon government of national unity priorities anchored in respect for the Constitution, the Bill of Rights in its entirety, a united South Africa, and the rule of law.”