Best looks from South Africa’s biggest political event

Politicians, musicians, and celebrities arrived in their most glamorous looks for one of South Africa’s biggest political events – the State of the Nation Address (Sona), making it almost as much about fashion as politics.

Sona is a joint sitting of the two houses of parliament in Cape Town to mark the start of the government’s work for the year, where President Cyril Ramaphosa paints a picture of where the country stands and outlines the road ahead.

In his speech, President Ramaphosa talked about the nation’s resilience, earning rapturous applause when he declared, “South Africa will not be bullied.”

His stance comes after his US counterpart Donald Trump threatened to cut off funding over South Africa’s land policy.

While governance takes centre stage, Sona has evolved into a fashion spectacle over the years, with MPs using their outfits to support local designers and showcase South African talent.

The outfits are always a hot topic on social media, and this year is no exception.

Praise singer Inako Mateza, this year’s imbongi (traditional praise poet), played a key role in one of the most significant Sona traditions.

Through song and dance, she recounted President Cyril Ramaphosa’s life story and history, blending tradition with a personal touch.

She ended her performance by addressing the president with his well-known nickname, “Cupcake.”

South Africa Minister of Water and Sanitation, Pemmy Majodina wore a traditional outfit and spectacular ear-rings.

Water was a key part of Ramaphosa’s speech, as he said there would be several investments in water projects to address the shortages affecting the whole country.

Draped in gold, this snazzy dresser is Gezani Kobane, a member of former President Jacob Zuma’s party, uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK).

As MK cements its presence in South African politics as the main opposition party, figures like Kobane are drawing attention both for their political stance and their distinctive style.

But Zuma wasn’t in attendance as he was dealing with his ongoing trial on allegations of corruption over an arms deal. He denies any wrongdoing.

Outside parliament, there is a red carpet for guests and ministers to strike a pose.

South African politician and Pondo traditional leader Mwelo Nonkonyana, who now serves on the Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa in the Eastern Cape showed off his community’s style, along with a staff.

Julius Malema’s party, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) arrived in their trademark red overalls. The party has disrupted previous Sonas, but this year they were relatively calm.

Malema expressed his disappointment in President Ramaphosa speech and told local broadcaster eNCA, it was just “waffle”.

Members of Parliament were dressed to the nines as they listened to the speech.

Now the hard work begins.