By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Parliament is gearing up for one of the most significant events on South Africa’s democratic calendar as preparations gather pace for the 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA) – a sitting that coincides with the 30th anniversary of the country’s Constitution.
Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza, says Parliament is fully prepared for the 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA) and remains committed to strengthening oversight and accountability.
President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to deliver the State of the Nation Address at 7pm at the Cape Town City Hall.
Didiza says SONA 2026 is more than a ceremonial event, describing it as a reaffirmation of Parliament’s constitutional mandate to hold the Executive to account, legislate in the public interest, and promote meaningful public participation.
She has assured South Africans that Parliament is operationally ready and institutionally focused, with plans to use the address to set the tone for intensified oversight, responsive law-making, and tangible service delivery.
Didiza confirmed on Wednesday that this year’s Sona will cost taxpayers just over R7m.
She held a briefing on Wednesday on Parliament’s readiness to host the joint sitting. Didiza said costs have effectively halved compared to last year’s budget.
“If you look at the costs of last year, they were escalated because of the weather in Cape Town, particularly that affected the overflow tent where most of our guests sit to listen to the president. Immediately we had to make a decision and approach the ICC to assist us with the hosting of that constituency. That pushed the cost higher than what we had expected.”
She said planning for a majestic event like SONA requires close coordination with several government departments responsible for infrastructure and security.
“If you look at the tents that are here, it is Public Works that is responsible, working with the city to ensure that indeed it is ready for that hosting. Also, to make sure that the security of the precinct is in place, and that is why we work with the security cluster. You saw the minister of justice, police, as well as correctional services, because all of those are important in hosting an event such as this.”
Didiza added that authorities have not identified any specific threats of protests, but said space remains for citizens to express their views.
Meanwhile National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) has assured the country that the president’s speech will proceed smoothly, without any disruptions.
NATJOINTS said various stakeholders have been meeting regularly in the build-up to SONA 2026.
Officials have enhanced police visibility to prevent and combat any opportunistic crime before, during, and after the address. It said a road closure advisory has been issued to local residents, spectators, and businesses around Cape Town City Hall.