The latest round of revelations of corruption in the arms deal shatters South Africa's international image and calls into question Parliament's oversight role, United Democratic Movement leader Bantu Holomisa said on Wednesday.

He said foreign investors must be "asking themselves what the point is of making long-term investments in a country where politicians, officials and certain business people can unscrupulously commit acts of corruption without fear of prosecution.

"Only an uncompromising and harsh response from the government will salvage our country's international image."

Holomisa's comment follows the publication of the names of 33 VIPs who acquired discount luxury cars through the European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company, which is involved in the arms deal.

'They obviously take the fight against corruption seriously'

Among those who received discounts were South Africa Air Force chief Lieutenant-General Roelf Beukes and Mandla Msomi, former chairperson of the National Assembly's public enterprises committee.

Holomisa said it was "embarrassing that Germany is now investigating the business practices of German companies in South Africa. They obviously take the fight against corruption seriously. Their decision is based on media reports, unlike our government, which responds to media or opposition reports of corruption with vehement denial."

"As much as the government must restore South Africa's image, where parliament is itself brought into disrepute, it must do everything possible to restore its reputation and root out corruption. The UDM will request that Msomi explain himself before parliament's ethics committee," Holomisa said.  

With acknowledgement to Andre Koopman and The Star.