Cape Town – Dignitaries have started streaming in to the National Assembly where President Jacob Zuma is expected to arrive shortly to deliver his State of the Nation Address.
The fashion on the red carpet this year has been varied with much aquamarine, red to mark Valentines Day and the usual African attire.
The DA's Lindiwe Mazibuko was dressed by Stefania Morland – sporting a black number sinched at the waist, with a tulle bodice with flower detail. The outfit was paired with gold glitter shies and her signature red lips.
A large diamante clip finished off her hair.
“I went for something a bit different this year – all black. I feel fabulous, I feel cool,” she said.
She said she was looking forward to the speech and a “good evening with colleagues” before tackling the year ahead.
DA leader Helen Zille was fashion forward in her aquamarine off-the-shoulder Johan Smith dress – which she said was her husband’s favourite colour. She said her clutch was covered in ostrich feathers.
She said she hoped the President would announce practical plans to implement the national Development Plan.
Member of Parliament, Loretta Jacobs, looked lovely in her gold and turquoise mid-length dress. It was turquoise lace with a gold band around her waist.
Jackson Mthembu, African National Congress national spokesperson wore a simple brown suite, expected to hear about jobs for the youth of South Africa and proof that the infrastructure programme is being rolled out.
He also wanted to know how the President expected to grow the economy in 2013.
Reverend Kenneth Meshoe, President of the African Christian Democratic Party, and his wife wowed the crowd in their matching white with black polka dots ensemble.
Steve Swart, an ACDP member of Parliament, wore a purple shirt to match his wife’s crepe dress. He said he wanted Zuma to say something about the high level of sexual violence against women and children in the country.
Mr South Africa 2012 2nd runner up Zane Maqetuka, looked dapper in his wine-red pants and button up shirt, with a black jacket and shoes. He said he chose his outfit because it was Valentines Day.
ANC Member of Parliament, Morwesi Segale-Diswai, dressed up in an Indian-inspired outfit to pay tribute to Anni Dewani who was shot and killed while on honeymoon in Cape Town.
“Anni Dewani is my inspiration tonight. I wanted to pay tribute to her and let her spirit rest in peace,” said Segale-Diswai of her dress which is from Le Chic in Rustenburg.
International Relations Minister Maite Nkoana Mashabane looked elegant in her blood red dress accessorized with pearls.
Deputy Minister of Communications, Stella Tembisa Ndabeni, wore a gorgeous tulle blue-green dress with beading detail. She was interested to know what the President would say about Broadband Infraco.
Interspersed between their appearances were men in suits, including Sports Minister Fikile Mbalula, as well as DA MP Graham McIntosh who wore a kilt.
The President is due to address the nation at 7pm. It will be broadcast live on radio and television. – SAnews.gov.za
