We would like to put it on record that the delay of the sitting of the State of the Province today was not in anyway caused by the tardiness on the side of the Premier.

At such occasions the Legislature is the Host and therefore all matters with regards to Protocol and logistics are in their hands.

We therefore reiterate that the Premier was on time and followed instructions from the Speaker and the Legislature as to the running order and all programme arrangements. In fact it was exactly 08h44 when we received a call from the head of Security that the Premier is about to enter the venue.

The legislature is in the process of issuing a media statement clarifying this matter. Please send all enquiries to the Communication Manager in the Gauteng Legislature-Nondumiso Msomi,  082 577 9100

Warm Regards

Matlakala Motloung-Head of Communications

Gauteng Provincial Government

For media releases, speeches and news visit the Gauteng Provincial Government's portal at www.gautengonline.gov.za