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MPs have compared the fence to the Berlin Wall, where people tried to cross into West Germany in search of a better life during the Cold War.
FILE: President of Scopa, Mkhuleko Hlengwa. Image: EWN
JOHANNESBURG – The controversial Beitbridge border fence is both a “disgrace” and a “farce.”
That is according to the members of the Permanent Committee of Public Accounts of the Parliament (Scopa).
MPs have also compared the fence to the Berlin Wall, where people tried to cross into West Germany in search of a better life during the Cold War.
Scopa held a follow-up meeting Tuesday after his recent visit to Beitbridge, where MPs found a rusted fence that was shorter than the required height.
MPs and law enforcement agencies agree that the Beitbridge fence, which cost nearly R40 million, was not fit for purpose.
Scopa President Mkhuleko Hlengwa said: “I think there is no doubt that what we saw in Beitbridge confirmed our worst fears that the fence is not fit for purpose.”
Committee member Alf Lees said that Zimbabwe’s failure was a major concern.
“We can see the example of the Berlin Wall, which was a huge wall, but it failed to keep people in East Germany because the separation was bad.
“We have a similar situation here; Zimbabweans coming to South Africa will not be stopped by any fences.”
The commission has called for action to be taken against Public Works Minister Patricia de Lille, and has called for a Treasury report on the debacle to be released.
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