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Serious Concerns Over Restoration of Fire-Damaged Parliament Buildings

Dear Editor

The failure by the Development Bank of Southern Africa’s (DBSA) to appear before the Portfolio Committee on Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) to give an update over the fire damaged Parliament buildings is both outrageous and deeply disappointing.

The DBSA was expected to present critical updates on the restoration of the fire-damaged Old and New Assembly buildings – a project of national importance that demands transparency, accountability, and diligent oversight to remain within budget and on time.

Given the significance of this undertaking, which is arguably one of the most important construction projects of Parliament’s 7th term, it is imperative that rigorous oversight and accountability is maintained. Despite this. it is regrettable that the DBSA has chosen to hinder Parliament’s oversight role by failing to attend today’s meeting, despite receiving ample notice.

The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson – during his oversight visit to Parliament on the 25th of July 2024, called on the DBSA to submit bi-weekly updates on the project’s progress. These updates are necessary to ensure that the project stays within the allocated budget of R2 billion and is completed by the end of May 2026 as planned.

The DBSA’s absence today is therefore unacceptable, as it delays critical discussions and undermines the urgency of this project. The DA demands that the DBSA takes the public into its confidence and provides an update on the project status and honour the Ministers request for regular progress updates.

The reconstruction of Parliament is a project of strategic national importance and as such, should be pursued with urgency by all stakeholders – the DBSA included.

The DBSA must recognize the gravity of its role in restoring the heart of South Africa’s democracy. This project is not just a matter of infrastructure; it is about upholding the integrity and functionality of our legislative processes and democracy. As such, the DBSA’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and timely progress is non-negotiable.

The DA will continue to hold all stakeholders to the highest standards, ensuring that the restoration of Parliament is conducted with the diligence and urgency it demands. The people of South Africa deserve nothing less.

Regards

Edwin Macrae Bath
DA Deputy Spokesperson on Public Works and Infrastructure

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