Debate on the Opening of Parliament Address

The IFP entered the 2024 elections on a mission to reBuild South Africa.

We knew that 2024 would be the most crucial election since the dawn of democracy. Our country had strayed too far from its vision of a united, prosperous South Africa in which a better life for all would be possible. The dreams, hopes and aspirations of many had turned to ashes.

Our collective future was at stake.

We entered the 2024 election determined to put South Africans first, and to bring integrity back into Government.

At the heart of this vision is a Government that works for its people.

The GNU must therefore be applauded, for it is committed to building a capable, ethical and developmental state, comprising of ethical, skilled and properly qualified public servants. This work has already begun, under the capable leadership of the Minister of Public Service and Administration, the Honourable Inkosi Buthelezi.

Hon. Speaker –

As the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, I heed our citizens’ outcry over the dire state of many municipalities, over the failures of local government, and the need for our municipalities to work. Basic services must be delivered, and delivered efficiently.

At the heart of the crisis, is the resource constraints of many municipalities. The current funding model for Local Government is unsustainable and perpetuates inequality between rich and poor.

A new funding model is a must; one that considers each municipality’s unique needs and challenges, and provides a more equitable distribution of resources.

Hon. President, you called for an updated White Paper on Local Government. CoGTA is leading the reform of the 1998 White Paper. Indeed, the White Paper Political Oversight Committee is already meeting next week. This presents an opportunity to rethink the funding model for municipalities.

In March 2026, we will table in Cabinet an Updated WPLG that is responsive to the real challenges and propose solutions, after thorough consultations with all sectors, to make Local Government work.

Hon. President; the GNU will ensure that the commitments you made to the nation do not become empty promises, but a lived reality.

We are encouraged that, during SONA, you acknowledged the constructive and important role that traditional leaders can play in improving services to our people.

For decades the IFP has proclaimed the critical role of traditional leaders in promoting development and stability in our communities. We know the importance of partnering with them to deliver services and promote development. They must be properly supported and capacitated.

The focus on new infrastructure development is also welcomed, but it must be accompanied by maintaining and upgrading existing infrastructure.

To reBuild South Africa, we need to reBuild our education system, reBuild our healthcare system and reBuild our economy.

The IFP fully supports the principle of universal access to healthcare. Our concern is the feasibility and affordability of the NHI in its current form. Government must prioritise strengthening the existing public healthcare system, which is plagued by inefficiencies and shortages of equipment and medical personnel.

The IFP therefore proposes a more incremental approach to implementing the NHI, prioritising strengthening the existing healthcare system and piloting new models of care, before scaling up to a national program. We also emphasise the need for greater transparency and accountability in managing NHI funds, to arrest corruption and ensure that resources are properly used.

We welcome Government’s commitment to creating jobs and stimulating economic growth. We look forward to the implementation of the Medium-Term Development Plan, particularly in relation to the three strategic priorities of driving inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty, and tackling the high cost of living.

Hon. Speaker;

The unfolding drama and the international, diplomatic fallout around the Expropriation Act is deeply concerning. We condemn those who spread misinformation and work against our collective, national interest to rebuild SA. Having said that, Honourable President, the IFP believes that greater clarity and certainty must be provided on key issues of the Act, such as compensation and the definition of “public interest”.

We will keep engaging on this matter in pursuit of fairness, transparency and accountability.

Together with the nation, Hon. Speaker, I honour our fallen soldiers who bravely fought for peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Their selfless sacrifice will never be forgotten. The IFP supports initiatives to restore peace across the continent, knowing that peace and stability are essential for economic development, social justice and human dignity. Abrupt withdrawal would not be in the interests of the continent.

And we are proud of our continent. South Africa’s Presidency of the G20 is a significant milestone for Africa. As a nation, we must showcase our talents, abilities and potential, to unlock the economic opportunities that will enable us to address pressing domestic challenges.

Let me reiterate the IFP’s resolute support for the GNU and the GPUs, and their vision of healing the wounds of the past, while working for a brighter future for all.

Honourable President, on behalf of the IFP, I want to applaud and urge your continued support together with the Minister of Finance to the Premier of KZN Hon AT Ntuli in the fight against the liquidation of Ithala bank. Ithala Bank remains the legacy of Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi and the economic back born and pride of the African people: individuals and business people.

On 24 February 2025 , is a day of great march. We will be taking our fight to the streets against the liquidation of Ithala bank.

We are committed to National Dialogue to define a vision for our country’s future. This Dialogue must provide a meaningful platform for all South Africans to contribute to our nation’s development.

South Africa needs more than just hope. Now, we need a united effort to reBuild South Africa. Now, we need a faster pace of reform. It is time to act with genuine urgency.

The time for talking, only, is over.

Hon. President, the IFP will be counted amongst the nation builders, not the breakers. The doers, not just the dreamers. The workers, not the armchair critics.

We stand ready to reBuild South Africa.

I thank you.