Parliament said the recently introduced set of new joint rules will be implemented during the State of The Province Address (SONA) on Thursday.
According to the presiding officers of parliament, the new rules are aimed at maintaining order in the house, which has in the past been characterised by outburst, delayed proceedings, and even forced removals of some Members of Parliament.
The officers emphasized that the president’s speech is the sole agenda item and members of parliament will after engage in a two-day joint debate on the address with the president reply scheduled for the subsequent day.
“These rules set to be implemented for the first time during The State of The Nation Address, are an essential step in ensuring that the proceedings, including the SONA and the opening of parliament, are conducted with the respect and seriousness they deserve.
In terms of the new rules, no member is allowed to interrupt the president while delivering the state of the nation address. Similarly, interruptions are prohibited during the president speech, at the opening of parliament which is the first theme of the two houses following the elections.
Additionally, these rules stipulate that no other business may be considered during a joint sitting, other than the specific business for which the joint sitting is convened,” said National Assembly Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula during a media briefing in Cape Town on preparations to host SONA 2024.
Parliament dismissed reports that the new rules are meant to suppress members of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF).
