SONA 2017 about to kick off

SONA 2017 about to kick off

Parliament is now waiting for the president and the deputy president's motorcade to arrive - ahead of this evening's State of the Nation Address.

National Assembly



The parliamentary precinct has been abuzz as parliamentarians and other guests arrive and show off their outfits on the red carpet for the opening of Parliament.


It'll be pomp and ceremony within the hour - with a 21 gun salute and the singing of the national anthem


Meanwhile on the streets of Cape Town, police have clashed with Cosas supporters who had planned to join the EFF's protest.


The EFF's Secretary General, Godrich Gardee, says the only thing they want to hear President Jacob say in his State of the Nation Address tonight is that he is resigning.


"That is a thief that is resigning because he is in breach of his Oath of Office, and his Constitutional obligation," he said.



ANC supporters have also broken away from the People's Assembly rally at the Grand Parade - where president Jacob Zuma is expected to address them later this evening.


Some protesters say they're against any violence.


"Obviously we don't condone it, that's why we spoke to them. It's just young people that are upset, and want to show their support to the president. But we had to explain to them what is the process of doing that," this woman said.


The President will address the nation at 7pm this evening.

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