Before I start with what is expected of me, let me start with an apology. Firstly, some hon members were reportedly trapped in a lift somewhere, and I was asked to give them time to get to the House - the counting process has been over for quite some time now. So that is the reason.
Secondly, I need to make this point before it's too late. This is quite a historic moment, so we are all entitled to be excited in celebration of the democratic process as it unfolds. Even South Africans in the gallery are participating quite enthusiastically. But I have a request to make. Could you please restrain yourselves, however excited you may be that so-and-so was voted for? Just restrain yourselves so that the dignity, the quietness and the serenity - equivalent to that which obtains in a court of law - are observed at least for as long as I am presiding, and then you may continue afterwards. [Laughter.]
The Chief Justice announced the results of the ballot as follows:
Ballot papers issued: 366
Ballots counted: 366
Invalid ballot papers: 18
Ms Zisiwe Beauty Nosimo Balindlela: 88
Ms Baleka Mbete: 260
Ms Baleka Mbete accordingly elected as Speaker of the National Assembly.
The Chief Justice, on behalf of all present, congratulated Ms Baleka Mbete 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.