South African Parliament Building [Photo :Standardmedia.co.ke]
A fire that devastated South Africa’s parliament in Cape Town has been contained after it reignited on Monday.
The fire first broke out on Sunday and completely destroyed the National Assembly, or lower chamber.
Strong winds caused smoldering wood in the roof to catch fire again, before firefighters doused the blaze.
Police have arrested a suspect who is due to appear in court later on charges of arson, housebreaking and theft.
No casualties have been reported in the fire, however the damage to the parliament has shocked the nation.
Authorities had warned that flare-ups would be possible because of carpets and wooden floors in the building.
According to local media, just 12 firefighters were on site when the wind reignited wood above the National Assembly.
Despite reinforcements being sent, flames could still be seen emerging from the building as night fell.
“The fire was fanned by a strong south-easterly wind but firefighters managed to contain the fire just before 12:00 last night,” firefighters spokesman Jermaine Carelse said.
On Sunday, President Cyril Ramaphosa who admitted the building’s sprinkler system had not functioned properly praised the firefighters for responding to the “terrible and devastating event” in minutes.
Cape Town Mayor Geordie Hill-Lewis said the city’s council chamber would be made available as an alternative place for parliament to meet.