On Friday the 7th of February 1997, Parliament opened again with the ANC as the majority party. Many different and beautiful outfits were worn at the opening ceremony. There were hats in a variety of styles and each unique.
As he took his first sip of water during his speech Mr Mandela, jokingly said that perhaps he needed something stronger to drink.

When Mr Mandela walked toward the Parliament on his red carpet, excited children, from various schools replaced the soldiers that had lined the carpet previously. Some of the children said how much of a privilege it was to meet the President of their country.

The Relocation of Parliament

The story about moving Parliament from Cape Town to Johannesburg has been debated for some time. We interviewed some Parliamentarians about the relocation of Parliament and some of their comments are recorded below.

Land and Agriculture Minister Derek Hanekom stated that it was a difficult question and that he would have to think about it hard.

ANC MP from Gauteng, Bavumile Vilakazi an ex migrant labourer who fought against this form of employment, said he was in favour of the move to Pretoria, so he could be at home with his relatives.

Gwen Mahlangu of the ANC stated that if Parliament was to move, all the MP's cars would be stolen because of the high crime rate in Pretoria. She thinks it should remain in Cape Town.

Judy Chalmers, ANC MP said that Cape Town is a beautiful place to live and to visit. She feels that one province should not have all the power and therefore, it should stay in Cape Town.

Imam Gassan Soloman also says that Cape Town has incredible beauty and cannot be rivalled. "Cape Town's economy depends on Parliament being here" he said.

Ken Andrew, DP politician, says that economic opportunity should spread between provinces.

Page up