MBABANE – His Majesty King Mswati III has blessed next Friday as the official date for the State opening of the third session of the 12th Parliament.
The announcement was made yesterday at Parliament by House of Assembly Speaker Jabulani Mabuza during a press conference outlining preparations for the national ceremony.
According to a report by the Eswatini Observer, the opening of Parliament will once again be marked by the Speech from the Throne, signalling the formal resumption of parliamentary business and setting out government’s policy direction for the year ahead.
“We are pleased that this year’s event is in line with the commemoration of 40 years of the distinguished leadership of His Majesty King Mswati III,” Mabuza said.
The Speaker also outlined strict protocols for the day. Invited guests have been urged to carry their invitation cards as seating will follow colour coded designations from the chamber to the marquee, where Their Majesties will host lunch for invited guests.
All attendees are expected to be seated by 10am. The dress code is formal Western attire or traditional regalia.
“Final rehearsals and a stakeholder meeting will be held on Wednesday. The media dress code is formal and all practitioners are expected to parade their tags, which will strictly designate where they should sit and conduct interviews with parliamentarians and invited guests,” he added.
Mabuza said organisers are focused on safeguarding the dignity of the occasion while ensuring that proceedings move smoothly.
“Emaswati are internationally recognised for their respect and decorum. All attendees are implored to uphold these values to ensure the success of this important national ceremony,” he said.
His sentiments were echoed by Senate President Lindiwe Dlamini, who announced that proceedings will be broadcast live on Eswatini Broadcasting and Information Service and Eswatini TV.
“The King spoke about the importance of getting the correct information to the people during last year’s Speech from the Throne,” she added.
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