Staff Reporter
Only 50 people will be allowed at the official opening of the Free State Legislature next Tuesday in line with the COVID-19 protocols for indoor gatherings.
This was said by the speaker of the provincial legislature, Zanele Sifuba, when she addressed a media briefing on Thursday to give an update on the preparations for the State of the Province Address (SOPA) to be delivered by Premier Sisi Ntombela.
“Only 50 people including our preparatory team will attend the SOPA in line with the COVID-19 regulations,” she said.
Sifuba said 17 Members of the Legislature will be in the chamber with the rest following proceedings virtually.
There will also be two members of the table assistance and 24 guests.
“Only eight media personnel with nine cameras will be accommodated inside the chamber, mainly for technical set-up,” she said.
Thereafter, 16 journalists will be allowed for a post-SOPA media briefing with the speaker and the premier.
At least 30 media houses in the province will be provided with a link to access the sitting on various digital platforms.
Sifuba said the stringent measures were meant to ensure the safety of all those attending the event.
The speaker said besides limiting numbers at gatherings, the provincial legislature has also reduced the circulation of information in printed form to limit the spread of the coronavirus.
“. . . we do not compromise in ensuring that compliance to COVID-19 regulations is followed to the letter . . . For example, a number of our directorates have reduced the use of paper circulation by about 70 percent. This means that the chances of contracting COVID-19 through the exchange of paper has been duly minimised,” she said.