MP's sworn in today

Lusanda Bill & Bulelani Guwa
21 May 2014

Today the first sitting of the Fifth Parliament was held in the National Assembly presided by Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng.

All 400 Members of Parliament were sworn in early today with members of the Economic Freedom Fighters bright in their red overalls.

African National Congress' Baleka Mbete was elected as Speaker of Parliament winning by 260 votes and Democratic Alliance nominee Nosimo Balindlela received 88 votes.

Mbete while addressing the house said she looks forward to working with heads of all political heads to ensure the house remains a vibrant peoples' Parliament.

Lechesa Tsenoli is the new Deputy Speaker of Parliament.

Democratic Alliance's James Selfe apposed the election of President Jacob Zuma stating that his nomination was hasty as he has not responded to two recommendations by the Public Protector.

Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng said objections to any member of the MP list should have been done before the sitting, so therefore i dismiss that application. President Jacob Zuma was elected as President of the Republic of South Africa uncontested.