Following the announcement of the results of the first democratic elections 30 years ago, the first parliament was convened under democratic institutions. At that time, it consisted of seven political parties. They are the African National Congress (ANC), which won 252 seats, the Democratic Party (DA), the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), the People's Party, the African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP), the FF Plus, and the Pan-Africanist Congress of Azania. (PAC) shared the remaining 148 seats.
The public hearing of Parliament, chaired by the then Chief Justice Michael Corbett, was filled with people who witnessed this momentous event. While new members of parliament were sworn in, the majority of members were previously disenfranchised members.
Nelson Mandela was announced as the first democratic president, receiving loud applause and messages of congratulations from his colleagues. His election meant that his destination was the Union Buildings, the highest office in government.
This is also where he took the oath of office and where the inauguration ceremony was held. A few days later, Mandela returned to parliament for the opening of the first democratic parliament. It was the chairman's job to maintain order as the jubilant members were unable to restrain themselves.
After 30 years, the number of represented political parties has doubled to 14, and independent candidates could represent them after this year's elections.
Democratic Parliament of South Africa: