5 July 2006
The special sitting of the National House of Traditional Leaders (NHTL) in
the Chamber of the Western Cape Provincial Parliament is a very historic
occasion for this legislature.
Mr Shaun Byneveldt, Speaker of the Western Cape Provincial Parliament, has
welcomed the delegates from the various auspicious royal and traditional
authorities, who gathered for their first plenary session in the historic
legislative building in Cape Town.
The NHTL will deliberate about its relation with traditional houses in other
countries and also make arrangements for the replacement of the recently
retired NHTL chairperson Inkosi Mpiyesintombi Mzimela. It is the fifth sitting
of the present session of the NHTL, who watch over traditional and cultural
affairs such as customary law.
Acting Chairperson, Khosi Fhumulani Kutama, NHTL Deputy Chairperson presides
over the discussions over the next two days.
Speaker Byneveldt says; "For too long has the doors of this province been
closed to our constitutionally recognised institution of traditional leaders.
Now we have practically demonstrated that the Western Cape is indeed open to
all.
"The Western Cape is a home for all and this legislature has pleasure in
welcoming the NHTL for the first time on our premises."
The NHTL has thanked the provincial parliament for availing its facilities
for the duration of the sitting.
The discussion of reports from 09h00 on Thursday, 6 July 2006, is open to
the public.
All media welcome.
Further media enquiries:
Werner Schwella
Media Officer
Cell: 083 591 6691
Issued by: Office of the Speaker, Western Cape Provincial Government
5 July 2006
