The South African National Assembly began using a repurposed dome as its temporary chamber on Monday, to ensure the continuity of its proceedings after a devastating fire destroyed the historic parliamentary buildings in 2022.
Cape Town, Feb. 10 (Xinhua) -- The South African National Assembly officially began using a repurposed dome as its temporary chamber on Monday, to ensure the continuity of its proceedings after a devastating fire destroyed the historic parliamentary buildings in 2022.
The giant structure, located in the parliamentary precinct in Cape Town, will serve as the main chamber for National Assembly sittings while reconstruction efforts on the original buildings continue. Timelines for the rebuilding process remain uncertain.
The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure transported and constructed the dome, previously used for the funeral of former President Nelson Mandela, at the request of the National Assembly to temporarily house sittings until the reconstruction of parliament is completed, according to a statement issued by the department.
"The structure, now equipped with a new roof sail and structural reinforcements, will allow the National Assembly to hold sittings uninterrupted in all weather conditions. Additionally, it will enable members of the public to observe proceedings in person for the first time in many years," Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Dean Macpherson said in the statement.
The minister added that he will work with the parliament to ensure the successful functioning of the dome in the weeks and months ahead.
The need for a temporary chamber arose after a massive fire tore through the parliamentary complex in Cape Town in January 2022, destroying both the National Assembly building and the Old Assembly Wing. The blaze, allegedly caused by an arsonist, left the National Assembly without a dedicated venue, forcing members of parliament to use alternative spaces, including the Cape Town City Hall, for key events such as the State of the Nation Address (SONA) and legislative debates.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to deliver his replies to the SONA debate later this week, marking one of the first major sessions to take place in the temporary chamber. ■
