The domed venue is owned by local businessman Freddie Kenney, who has brought employment and business opportunities to Mangaung residents, especially young people. 

“Sopa is an opportunity for the premier of the Free State to speak to the nation and in particular the people of the province about the commitment made by the government,” said Free State Legislature Deputy Speaker Nolitha Ndungane.

“She (will speak) about what it has achieved so far, and on challenges if there’ve been any, and how it will address them in a new financial year. This Sopa differs from the previous August 2024 address, which outlined the government’s five-year vision following the elections.”

The premier will present the government’s key deliverables and how the government intends to achieve them. Attendees must reflect the sectors the legislator works with directly: youth, older persons, women, and even the house of traditional leaders, she said.

Ndungane emphasised the significance of public engagement in governance and encouraged broader participation in the discussions surrounding the province’s development.

“I foresee a situation where the premier’s speech tomorrow will not deviate much from the speeches that have been delivered in 2024 and even the one delivered by her predecessor,” said Free State political analyst Sethulego Matebesi. “Because government priorities do not change overnight.”

“I will be surprised if the premier does not focus on ongoing challenges in the province, one of the major challenges has been gender-based violence, as well as issues such as investment in infrastructure, such as roads, water provision, and health care facilities which are really a huge challenge in the province.”

After the address, Speaker Mxolisi Dukwana and the premier will engage with the media in a post-Sopa briefing, during which the premier will clarify some of the government’s commitments.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame mvh