In a dramatic courtroom outburst, Zandile Mafe, the man accused of setting fire to South Africa's Parliament building in January 2022, confessed to the act and threatened further arson if the Parliament isn't moved from Cape Town to either Bloemfontein or Pretoria. The fire significantly damaged the historic complex, requiring extensive repairs estimated at $120 million and expected to take at least three years.

Mafe's outburst occurred during a court appearance to determine his fitness to stand trial. He faces charges of breaking and entering, arson, and terrorism. Following his arrest shortly after the blaze began, a judge ordered a psychiatric evaluation.

The presiding judge, Nathan Erasmus, allowed Mafe to continue his outburst to avoid exacerbating his mental state. An expert report suggests Mafe may not comprehend the gravity of his alleged actions. A final decision regarding the trial is postponed until next month. Mafe himself demanded a sentence of 25 years to life, declaring he wasn't afraid of such a penalty.

The incident has raised concerns about security measures at the Parliament, which was largely empty at the time of the fire due to a legislative break. No injuries were reported. Mafe has previously expressed anger over various issues in South Africa, including accusations of racism against the opposition party governing Cape Town and criticisms of the government's handling of poverty.