Zuma’s MK Party becomes the official opposition in Parliament

National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza has announced that Jacob Zuma’s uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party will serve as the official opposition in Parliament for the seventh administration.

The MK Party, Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and other smaller parties did not form part of the Government of National Unity (GNU) following the historic 29 May elections where support for the ANC declined to just 40%.

WHY IS THE MK PARTY THE OFFICIAL OPPOSITION?

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has been the official opposition in Parliament since 1999, however, because the John Steenhuisen-led party is part of the GNU, the third-biggest political party becomes the official opposition.

In an interview with Newzroom Afrika on Thursday, Didiza said the rules committee concluded that the Zuma-led party which emerged as the third-biggest political party is the official opposition.

“When the rules committee had its meeting on 3 July, this is one of the issues that it indicated needed to be sent to our sub-committee for further deliberation and report back to the rules committee for a final decision which happened on Wednesday,” Didiza explained.

OPENING OF SEVENTH PARLIAMENT

President Cyril Ramaphosa’s address marks the beginning of a new five-year parliamentary cycle, attended by members of both the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces.

This joint session will offer the President a platform to outline the key priorities and policies of the seventh administration, which includes various political parties forming a Government of National Unity.

CELEBRATING NELSON MANDELA INTERNATIONAL DAY

The Opening of Parliament Address coincides with Nelson Mandela International Day, a day declared by the United Nations to honour the legacy of South Africa’s struggle icon and first black democratically elected president. This day encourages people worldwide to take action towards positive change, fostering a global movement for good.

In line with this spirit, the government has invited all South Africans to participate in the Opening of Parliament Address. The event will be broadcast live at 19:00 on major television and radio stations, allowing citizens to be part of this national milestone.