King to officially open Parliament on Friday
MBABANE – His Majesty King Mswati III will officially open the fifth session of the 11th Parliament this coming Friday.
Speaker in the House of Assembly and Mhlambanyatsi Member of Parliament Petros Mavimbela announced yesterday, through a press conference, that preparations towards this year’s State opening of the 5th session of the 11th parliament were at an advanced stage and this year’s ceremony would be held on Friday, February 17, 2023, as endorsed by His Majesty.
“This year’s Speech from the Throne will be significant in that, it does not only mark the resumption of Parliament business and policy direction, but also the final speech for the 11th Parliament from 2018 to 2023,” said Mavimbela.
Rehearsal
He added; “Last Wednesday, we had our first rehearsal, followed by a meeting with all stakeholders involved. The final rehearsal and meeting will again be this Wednesday (tomorrow), to ensure that everything goes according to plan.”
Mavimbela said invited guests were implored to carry with them their invitation cards, to be allowed entry and they would be seated according to the colour codes of the invitation cards and were requested to comply with ushers on arrival.
Regarding health-related issues, the Speaker said officials from the Ministry of Health will be stationed within the precincts for emergency purposes.
“Those who will be under the weather on the day are encouraged to follow the live stream,” he said.
It was also stated that face masks would be made available for those who would need them at the venue.
Respectful
Mavimbela added that emaSwati were known for their respectful nature worldwide and they must continue doing so even during this ceremony, for it to be a great success.
“Parliamentarians are requested to be seated in their designated seats in the Chamber by 10am.
“The national broadcasters; namely Eswatini TV and EBIS will be live on the day. Social media platforms such as Eswatini TV’s YouTube and Facebook pages will be live-streaming to enable emaSwati to view and listen to the proceedings,” he shared.
A social media link will be issued for dignitaries through the line Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation for the international community to be able to follow the proceedings.