The government’s new legislative agenda begins today with the state opening of parliament.

The opening begins at 10:00 a.m.

Hundreds of Bahamians, tourists and supporters of both the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) and the Free National Movement (FNM) are expected to flood Bay Street to witness the pomp and pageantry of the state opening.

The event will be highlighted by Governor-General Sir Arthur Foulkes’ inspection of the Guard followed by the highly anticipated Speech from the Throne, which outlines the government’s agenda for the next year.

According to organisers, some 3,000 invitations have been sent out.

Thirty-eight Members of Parliament (MP)-elect will take their oaths of allegiance and qualification.

Sixteen senators, who recently received their instruments of appointment, will be sworn in the upper chamber.

Today, a House of Assembly speaker and deputy speaker will also be elected.

Prime Minister Perry Christie has already announced his intention to have Dr. Kendal Major, MP-elect for Garden Hills elected as the next House speaker and Dion Smith, the MP-elect for the Nassau Village elected as deputy speaker.

The PLP won 29 seats in the May 7 General Election, ousting the FNM, which secured nine seats.