Outgoing Limpopo Premier, Advocate Ngoako Ramatlhodi, faced severe criticism from opposition parties during the weeklong debate on his state-of-the-nation speech in the provincial legislature.

However, Mr Ramatlhodi responded in a conciliatory manner, calling for tolerance and cooperation from all stakeholders in the province. He said it had been a privilege for him to serve as the premier of the province.

During his earlier speech, the Premier had apologised "to those I might have hurt through my actions or inactions".

Opposition speakers launched sharp attacks on the ruling African National Congress, saying it had failed to deal effectively with corruption and mismanagement.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) was particularly severe in its criticism of the administration of the province's departments of education and transport. DA provincial leader Michael Holford caused uproar in the House when he said it was just as well Mr Ramatlhodi had apologised.

The Premier intervened during some heated interjections, appealing to legislature members to allow Mr Holford to complete his speech.

ANC members, led by Ms Hunadi Mateme, refuted the DA allegations, and praised Premier Ramatlhodi for his positive leadership.

The Premier assured the House that all the issues raised during the debate were receiving ongoing attention.