Pictures: Who stole the red carpet spotlight at Sona 2026?

The State of the Nation (SONA) red carpet at Cape Town City Hall is heating up on Thursday, February 12, as politicians, dignitaries and celebrities are starting to arrive to hear President Cyril Ramaphosa’s address.

Sindisiwe Chikunga, Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and People with Disabilities, looked regal in a royal blue gown with gold detailing. The waist-synched garment was paired with gold accessories, completing a sophisticated look.

Meanwhile, South African comedian and ventriloquist Conrad Koch arrived in a casual black ensemble - but his famous puppet, Chester Missing, stole the spotlight in a suave buttoned blazer over a black collared shirt.

Black and gold made a serious statement, too. A gown by fashion designer Londeka Ndaba featured gold floral detailing along the front and pleats in the skirt - because let’s be honest - the party isn’t in the back; it’s happening all over the front.

Have you ever seen a wedding look that’s half suit, half dress, and all kinds of wow? Today, you have.

Thami Dish, activist and founder of the Feather Awards, served an all-white ensemble - gown meets suit - with an open-shoulder twist and a matching hat. The whole vibe screamed royal wedding energy, and they pulled it off effortlessly.

Bedazzled blazers are definitely having their moment, especially for men. Sequined pieces are stealing the spotlight, with darker shades - deep navy and classic black - leading the pack.

Meanwhile, one of the best-dressed so far is Moyanda Mohai, wife of Seiso Joel Mohai, Deputy Minister of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation in the Presidency. She wore a shimmery gold dress with dramatic lime green detailing, keeping the rest of her look simple with just a gold clutch.