[Jan] President’s Address to the Parliament

Question 1

Constitutional Provisions?

Answer 1

Article 87(1) says: “At the commencement of the first session after each general election to the House of the People and at the commencement of the first session of each year the President shall address both Houses of Parliament assembled together and inform Parliament of the causes of its summons.”

Question 2

First Constitutional Amendment in this regard?

Answer 2

Originally, the Constitution required the President to address both Houses of Parliament at the commencement of “every session”. This requirement was changed by the First Amendment to the Constitution.

Question 3

What is in President’s address?

Answer 3

The President’s speech essentially highlights the government’s policy priorities and plans for the upcoming year. It is drafted by the Cabinet, and provides a broad framework of the government’s agenda and direction.

Question 4

Motion of thanks?

Answer 4

The address is followed by a motion of thanks moved in each House by ruling party MPs.

Question 5

parallels in other countries?

Answer 5

• In the United States, it is referred to as the “State of the Union”
• United Kingdom, it is referred to as the Queen’s Speech