The Free State’s State of the Province Address (Sopa), scheduled for 28 February, is set to go ahead as planned, amid the burning question over the Premier candidate to deliver this annual address. The Sopa is an address by the Premier and focuses on various aspects ranging from the current political and socio-economic state of the province, and sets out government’s key policy objectives and deliverables for the year ahead.
There are contradicting reports about the incumbent Premier Sisi Ntombela’s resignation with some claiming she did in fact tender her resignation letter, while others suggest otherwise. There is also a question regarding the sufficient time frame to elect and swear-in her successor.
Mxolisi Dukwana, ANC’s newly-elected chairperson and current MEC of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, is the favourite to replace Ntombela.
However, Life Mokone, head of communication of the Free State Legislature, explained at a media briefing held today (Tuesday), in Bloemfontein, that all is set for the 2023 Sopa scheduled for next week Tuesday. He played down possible disruptions that caused the postponement of the Sopa delivery.
“The provincial Legislature will have to give us a name of the Premier, if there will be a change in that regard. We do our task as administration, and the politicians do theirs in terms of the decision-making to the Premier and MECs,” said Mokone. He said any new developments will be communicated to relevant stakeholders.
Mokone said approximately 5 000 dignitaries are expected to grace this year’s Sopa to be held at the University of the Free State’s (UFS) southern campus (Vista) in Bloemfontein. He said provision is limited to a maximum of 30 media representatives.
