South African politicians brought their fashion A-game to the 2024 State of the Nation Address. From Kenny Kunene's designer shades to traditional African attire, we review the most striking looks that graced the red carpet at Cape Town City Hall.

Members of parliament have traditionally graced the red carpet in their finest attire for the occasion, and this year was no exception, with many arriving in stunning ensembles.

The Star’s team analysed the hits and misses of some of our MPs. While we understand that MPs are politicians, but some at least they could have put in some effort when dressing up for the red carpet. We also had new faces attending the State of the Nation Address (SONA), delivered by President Cyril Ramaphosa - the first under the Government of National Unity (GNU).

The deputy president for the Patriotic Alliance, Kenny Kunene, looked dashing in his subtle-chequered navy blue suit.

His look was elegant; however, those expensive Versace goggles he calls shades made us question whether he misses his “Sushi King” days when he was still a controversial public figure.

Kenny Kunene. Picture: Independent Media

We are tempted to critic the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, because her look is common. We have seen it too many times on SA red carpets. However, the Nigerian headgear, gele, saved her!

Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi. Picture: Independent Media

Umkhonto Wesizwe is quite popular for its controversy, but at least some of their members dressed up for the night.

Legendary musician and now MP, Papa Penny Penny, including former public protector and her string of political homes, Busisiwe Mkhwebane, were inspired by Goldy-Locks.

While both their outfits were the opposite colour, clearly gold was the common denominator.

Umkhonto Wesizwe MPs, Papa Penny Penny and Busisiwe Mkhwebane. Picture: Independent Media

Elegance is befitting for the woman in red. The chairperson of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane kept it simple and bold in her red straight-cut dress and cape, the white heels, neckpiece and hair tied-up into a bun completed the look.

We listen, we don’t judge. No, we are definitely judging, we are echoing our judgement, because what is this?

We understand some of our girlies have given up on heels, but at least wear a kitten heel, block heel, something! We need women to go back to their default settings and wear some heels.

Our favourite look for the 2025 SONA red carpet has to be this royal blue outfit.

She may look like Zorro’s wife or sidekick, but this Mexican inspired outfit left our tongue wagging. While she could have still owned the red carpet with only the dress; the hat, oversized cape and especially, the silver-white traditional Mexican patterns, completed the look. Well done!

The Star

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