I apologise for the delay. The reconciliation of the ballot papers with - I forget the terminology now - this which they tear from, took long to happen, and because thoroughness is key, we had to spend as much time as was
necessary to do the right thing. So, accept our apologies. [Applause.]
HON MEMBER: [Singing.]
Ms Thandi Ruth Modise, accordingly, elected as Speaker of the National Assembly.
HON MEMBER: [Singing.]
The Chief Justice, on behalf of all present, congratulated Ms Thandi Ruth Modise on her election as Speaker and requested her to take the Chair.
The Serjeant-at-Arms conducted the Speaker to the Chair and placed the mace in its position.
HON MEMBER: Malibongwe!
HON MEMBERS: Igama lamakhosikazi!