SONA budget cut won't affect proceedings: Mbete
National Assembly speaker, Baleka Mbete says this year's budget cut of 47% won't affect Parliament's ability to host the State of the Nation Address in a dignified manner.
"We will still have an occasion that has enough of the ceremonial aspects that we should feel proud without spending too much money," Mbete said.
She has been speaking ahead of President Cyril Ramaphosa's speech, scheduled to begin at 7pm.
Final checks are underway in Cape Town, where a red carpet will be rolled out later outside Parliament, signalling the start of the pomp and ceremony normally associated with the SONA.
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Mbete says security will be tight too, given the number of high-profile dignitaries attending the address.
"When all three arms of the state are going to gather here - we have looked at every specific need even on the security front," she said.
And it seems former president, Jacob Zuma won't be attending.
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"We were informed though that he might not be in the country later this week. Therefore, we expect he might not be able to attend."
