FREE STATE LEGISLATURE
By Mpho Moloi – The Free State Legislature has officially announced that the first sitting of the House for the 7th administration will be held on Friday, 14 June 2024. This session will be convened to elect the new Premier, amongst other key positions.
Statement from the Free State Legislature
In a formal statement, the Legislature confirmed the date after consultations with the Office of the Judge President of the Free State Division of High Court, Hon Justice C.J. Musi. According to Section 110 (1) of the Constitution, “after an election, the first sitting of a provincial legislature must take place at a time and on a date determined by a judge designated by the Chief Justice, but not more than 14 days after the election results have been declared.”
Justice Musi or a representative will also swear in the designated members in the form of an oath or affirmation. Additionally, they will oversee the election of the Speaker, who will subsequently oversee the election of the Deputy Speaker.
“This swearing-in marks the beginning of the new legislative term, ensuring that elected members commit themselves to be faithful to the people and to uphold the Constitution before they commence their work,” the statement read.
Key Details of the Sitting:
- Date: Friday, 14 June 2024
- Time: 09:30 – 10:00
- Venue: Fourth Raadsaal, Bloemfontein
- Agenda:
- Swearing in new Members
- Election of the Speaker
- Election of the Premier
- Election of the Deputy Speaker and Presiding Officers
Members of the media have been invited to attend and cover this crucial event. RSVPs should be sent to kekeletsom@fsl.gov.za or 0629509195 by Thursday, 13 June 2024, at 12:00 noon. Late requests will not be considered.
ANC’s Expected Premier Nominees
As the ANC holds the majority in the legislature, it is anticipated they will announce their premier candidate shortly. ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula revealed that the party would declare their premier candidates this week following a series of interviews.
The ANC Women’s League (ANCWL) Treasurer General and current MEC for Community Safety, Roads, and Transport, Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae, is reportedly making notable efforts to become the Premier. She seeks to replace the current Premier, Mxolisi Dukwana.
During a recent extended ANC Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) meeting held on Monday, three names were proposed for consideration by the National Executive Committee (NEC) for the Premier role:
- Mxolisi Dukwana (Incumbent and Provincial Chairperson)
- Diboleleo Mahlatsi-Mance (Deputy Provincial Secretary and MEC for Public Works)
- Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae
Analysis of ANC’s Performance in Previous Elections
The upcoming election is set to be one of the most challenging for the ruling party. Nationally, the ANC faces the prospect of coalitions, adding another layer of complexity to their political strategy.
In the Free State’s 2019 elections, the results were as follows:
- ANC: 51.87% with 429,241 votes
- DA: 21.88% with 181,062 votes
- EFF: 13.52% with 111,850 votes
Despite maintaining a majority, the ANC’s popularity in the Free State saw a decline, barely retaining dominance. The challenges they face now could further impact their standing, making the selection of their Premier candidate all the more critical.
_______________________________________
Download Here:
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
________________________
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube
#centralnewsza