Zuma may miss Ramaphosa’s Sona speech

Ousted president Jacob Zuma had as of yesterday not responded to his invitation to the fifth state of the nation address to be held today in Parliament.

“We were informed he might not be in the country later in this week and therefore expect that he might not be able to attend because of absence from the country,” Speaker of Parliament Baleka Mbete said yesterday afternoon.

Zuma’s spokesperson did not respond to requests for information.

Baleka was doing a last-minute check accompanied by her deputy, Lechesa Tsenoli.

The air-shredding shriek of three Gripen fighter planes screeched over Parliament in practice for today’s event while inside the precinct was a bustle of activity as media set up their marquees and television camera platforms, police conducted sweeps with explosives dogs, brass was polished and a final touch-up was done.

The red carpet will only be rolled out today, ahead of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s arrival.

Mbete said cutting this year’s budget would not affect Parliament’s ability to host Ramaphosa. And after he’s finished giving his address, he’ll have to buy his own food if he’s feeling peckish.

“In previous years, the presiding officers would host a gala dinner after the Sona for members of parliament and invited guests only,” a statement from Parliament said yesterday.

“Consistent with Parliament’s endeavour to scale down on costs in light of the prevailing economic conditions, this year, again, the post-Sona gala dinner will not take place.”

Mbete announced this week the budget had been cut by 47% compared with 2018. However, there will still be a ceremonial parade by the army, the navy and the air force.

The national salute by the Ceremonial Guard of the South African National Defence Force, a military band, a salute flight by the SA Air Force and the 21-gun salute are also expected to take place.

“We will still have an occasion that has enough of the ceremonial aspects of an occasion such as we are hosting tomorrow that we should feel proud without unnecessarily spending too much money,” Mbete said.

So, roll out the threadbare red carpet, it’s most systems go.

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