18 January 2006
ALL SHALL HAVE EQUAL RIGHTS
The President of the Republic of South Africa, Mr Thabo Mbeki, will deliver
his State of the Nation Address to the joint sitting of Parliament, on 3
February 2006. As it has been the tradition throughout the existence of the
democratic Parliament since 1994, the institution spearheads all activities
related to the event.
Annually, the Presiding Officers determine the theme for the day. This
guides the activities that form part of the occasion of the State of the Nation
Address. This yearâs theme is âAll Shall Have Equal Rightsâ.
The State of the Nation Address is a very important occasion in our
political calendar as it brings together the different spheres of government,
all the three arms of the state and diverse sectors of our society. It actually
illustrates our state and our nation as a whole.
This yearâs theme sets the tone for a reflection on achievements, failures
and challenges regarding equality legislation we have passed since 1994. The
question that the theme seeks to ask is: to what extent have the ordinary
citizens benefited from equality law?
Parliamentâs Review Campaign, which commences shortly after the State of the
Nation Address, will specifically focus on The Promotion of Equality and the
Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act with a bias towards gender and
disability.
This Review Campaign will provide us with a platform to begin introspection
into our ability or lack of it, to implement legislation. This will enable
Parliament to ensure that where there are gaps in the implementation of our
legislation, we engage with other role-players to address the situation. MPs
will also be required to followâup on such matters during their constituency
work.
Jointly issued by: National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
18 January 2006
