A humble 2021 State of the Nation address is taking place on Thursday evening as President Cyril Ramaphosa discusses the country’s present and future in the midst of a devastating pandemic.This as Covid-19 shows no signs of slowing down to the point of normalcy just yet.
And the effects of the virus are palpable in tonight’s address, which is to be done in person by Ramaphosa from the National Assembly chamber, but in front of a limited number of MPs and media.Distinguished guests, the remaining MPs and most members of the media will be tuning in virtually through Zoom and other platforms, as just 50 people are allowed in the chambers.
The absence of dazzling outfits and furious networking, as a usually bustling Parliament remains eerily empty, is the result of the world’s temporary new normal. In pictures l There have been low-key preparations in the Parliamentary precinct ahead of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s address to the nation this evening at 7pm.