7th Parliament Sets Stage with Key Internal Structure Establishment and Orientation

Among the activities unfolding are the meetings of the Rules Committees of the National Assembly (NA) and the National Council of Provinces (NCOP).

With the election of the Presiding Officers and the inauguration of the new President now complete, the seventh Parliament is shifting its focus to establishing the internal structures necessary for Parliament to function effectively.

Among the activities unfolding are the meetings of the Rules Committees of the National Assembly (NA) and the National Council of Provinces (NCOP).

“These committees will establish the structures necessary for the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces to function. They also decide on the constitution of the two Houses’ respective committees, the formula for whips, speaking time during debates, and the number of Members that will serve on a committee," Parliament stated.

Whips play a crucial role in maintaining discipline within political parties and ensuring Members attend and participate in parliamentary sessions. The formula for whips is strategically significant as it influences parliamentary dynamics. Setting speaking times is essential for maintaining order and ensuring productive discussions.

The constitution of oversight committees is guided by the Cabinet portfolios designated by the President, as these committees exercise oversight over each government department. Committees are essential for scrutinizing government work, providing debate platforms, and ensuring accountability.

President Cyril Ramaphosa, in consultation with the Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza, and the Chairperson of the NCOP, Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane, will set the date for the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA). The OPA is a joint sitting of the two Houses marking the official opening of the seventh Parliament. Unlike the annual State of the Nation Address, the OPA occurs once every five years after elections to announce the new administration’s plans and marks the beginning of the new parliamentary term.

Due to ongoing construction, the OPA will be held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), chosen for its capacity, convenience, and proximity to the Parliament precinct.

Programme of the New Parliament

Once the structures of the two Houses are established, the Joint Programming Committee will convene to deliberate on the parliamentary programme. This committee is responsible for drawing up a programme for the first term, outlining the schedule and priorities for parliamentary activities to ensure a structured and efficient legislative session.

Orientation Programme for MPs

Newly elected Members of Parliament (MPs) will undergo an orientation programme from 2 July to 5 July to induct them into their new roles. The programme will cover a wide range of topics, including an introduction to the core business of Parliament, the roles and responsibilities of Members and Office Bearers, an overview of MPs’ ethics and disclosures, and the rules guiding the operations of each House and Joint Sittings.

Following the success of the first sittings, the seventh parliamentary administration is prepared to ensure that Parliament fulfills its constitutional mandate of oversight over the executive and provides a platform for the voice of South Africans in government policy and implementation.

Scheduled Meetings and Activities for the Week

Wednesday: Both Houses will hold their respective Rules Committee meetings. The NCOP Rules Committee meeting will start at 10:00, and the NA Rules Committee meeting is scheduled for 15:00.

Thursday: At 14:00, the NCOP will convene a hybrid plenary to elect various office bearers for the seventh Parliament, including several House Chairpersons and committee positions. The Council will also hold elections for the NCOP Permanent Delegates to the Pan-African Parliament and designate members to serve in various regional and national bodies.

Friday: The NA will hold its programming meeting at 10:00.

Pan-African Parliament (PAP): From 24 June to 5 July 2024, PAP will convene its first annual Plenary Session in Midrand to discuss and consider the budget and other critical items for enabling the institution to function optimally.