Opening of Parliament 2010

All the Arms of Service of the SANDF came to display their military skills and pay marks of respect to their Commander in Chief at this years opening of Parliament. The event was a historical occasion as this year’s opening of parliament also marked the 20-year anniversary of the release of former President Nelson Mandela from Victor Vester prison. Nelson Mandela’s grandson Mandla Mandela also graced the occasion with his presence in celebration of this occasion.

President Jacob Zuma greeting one of the spectators at the opening of Parliament and is flanked on the left by the SANDF aides-de-camp

Various Navy departments were also involved in the activities of the day. The military police (MP s) from all Arms of Service escorted the President, giving them the opportunity to interact with other Arms of Service. MP s from as far as Germany were present to learn how the South African MP’s perform their official duties and the SA Army included their first female motor bike riders in the precession.

This years opening of parliament had a “world cup flavor” as the parliament choir was wearing the Bafana Bafana soccer team kits in celebration of the hosting of the FIFA World Cup. A traditional singing group was invited to sing songs depicting the true spirit of Africa.

Junior Ratings from SA Navy and SA Air Force standing at ease while the SA Navy band in the background entertains people prior the arrival of the President	PO W.W. de Jager, WO2 J.M. Mthembu, CPO R. Noordien, WO2 P.W.D. Thom, WO2 S. Small were part of the presidential escort team

The SA Navy band was there to entertain spectators with their world-renowned music. A number of sailors were selected to be flame guards. The flame represents the bravery of all people who laid down their lives during all the wars in our country. The writing on the wall read: “In commemoration of the brave of all our peoples who laid down their lives for their beliefs and ideals in wars within and beyond the frontiers our country".

A traditional group entertaining people prior to the President's arrival	Nelson Madela's grandson, Mandla Mandela, at the opening of Parliament
The flame guard during the proceedings of the opening of parliament	The President with some of the members of Parliament during the 21-Gun Salute in Honour of the President

After the 21-gun salute in honour of the president, he and his entourage entered the parliament for the State of the Nation Address.