The anticipation for tonight's State of the Nation Address (SONA) is palpable, as President Cyril Ramaphosa prepares to address the nation at 7pm in Cape Town City Hall on Thursday, February 6.

With the establishment of the Government of National Unity (GNU), questions are being raised about what will be different this time, as this marks the first SONA since its formation last year.

This also marks the opening of the seventh Parliament.

National Assembly secretary, Masibulele Xaso, in an exclusive interview with Newzroom Afrika, highlighted that Ramaphosa is expected to provide an update on his previous vision outlined during the opening of Parliament, as well as plans for the year ahead.

“The State of the Nation Address is not just an event; it’s a program that allows Parliament to exercise its oversight over the executive, holding it accountable,” said Xaso.

Xaso further explained that the president's commitments will be followed by the budget on February 19, with each department subsequently presenting its plans, which will be scrutinised by parliamentary committees.

“This is a crucial moment for parliamentary oversight,” he added.

Xaso also noted that while there haven’t been significant procedural changes regarding the GNU, the sitting will follow the joint rules of both the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces (NCOP), as it is a joint sitting.

“The planning for the State of the Nation Address is extensive. It doesn’t happen in a month — it’s a collaborative effort that spans several months,” he emphasised, noting the collaboration between Parliament, the executive, and the judiciary to ensure a smooth event.

Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza, also spoke on the significance of tonight's address. She confirmed that former presidents Thabo Mbeki, Jacob Zuma, and Kgalema Motlanthe, along with former deputy president David Mabuza will be in attendance.

“It’s important to raise this question because optics often tell a story,” Didiza said.

“When we observe events like this, we tend to ask, 'Why is this person here, and why is that one not?'”

Regarding the potential for disruptions in Parliament, Didiza remained hopeful for a smooth event.

“The State of the Nation Address is the primary agenda item tonight, where the president will take the nation into his confidence,” she said.

“He’ll provide an assessment of the country’s state and how the government plans to prioritise matters for the year ahead.”

She expressed hope that members would adhere to the rules of procedure, noting that the High Court ruled in Parliament’s favour last year, affirming that MPs should not disrupt proceedings during the SONA.

With nearly 2,000 guests expected, including former heads of state and other dignitaries, Cape Town is set to host one of the largest gatherings of political figures in recent memory.

“The safety of all our guests is of utmost importance,” Didiza added, acknowledging the heightened security measures in place for the event.

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