The first batch of MPs have been sworn in by Chief Justice Raymond Zondo as the inaugural sitting of the National Assembly kicked off in Cape Town today.
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The proceedings have continued despite some empty seats reserved for the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF). Leader Julius Malema was not present when his name was called as the party arrived late to the proceedings.
As reported by the Daily Maverick, the DA’s Annelie Lotriet will be voted in as deputy speaker once the DA and ANC have reached an agreement.
According to federal chair Helen Zille, the two parties were locked in talks until at least 2am this morning, ‘We are working to find agreement on the last words in the last paragraph.
‘We could find each other on almost every issue…There is one paragraph still outstanding,’ she said.
President Cyril Ramaphosa and his deputy, Paul Mashatile were the first to be sworn in.
Former health minister, Doctor Zweli Mkhize will return as an ordinary member.
The leader of the Patriotic Alliance (PA), Gayton McKenzie, was sworn in as an official member of Parliament.
The ANC’s Helen Sauls-August was elected as the speaker of the legislature.
This is a developing story.
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Picture: Netwerk24 / Jaco Marais / Gallo Images