Hon. Speaker,
Hon. Premier and
Hon. members
On behalf of the IFP Caucus, I take this opportunity to wish every Honorable Member and the staff of the Legislature a happy and restful festive season.
We started the 2021 with our heads bowed down as result of the devastating 2nd wave of the Covid-19 pandemic. This year continued to inflict heavy wounds to this Legislature and the Zulu Nation, as we lost His Majesty the King, the Queen Regent, MEC Bheki Ntuli, Hon. Bridget Ntshangase and many members of the staff whom we knew closely. Indeed, some Members of this House are still struggling to heal from the loss of their loved ones. May the end of this year close the painful chapter of 2021 and heal the wounds as we cross over to 2022.
Indeed, may the coming festive season be our time to refresh and regain new strength to face challenges in 2022 and years ahead. We close this year out of steam from a gruelling 2021 Local Government Election campaign that was short, with stressful outcomes but free, fair and peaceful.
Christmas is an extra special time to rest, reflect, love, share, rejoice and have peace.
May we take this festive season break as time to rejoin, spend quality time, and give undivided attention to our families.
The IFP Caucus wishes you, Hon. Members and your families, His Majesty the King, the Royal family of the Zulu Nation and the Traditional Prime Minister of the Zulu Nation, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, a prosperous and healthy new year.