Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has voiced his opposition to the deployment of South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and called for the mission to be rescinded.
The deployment of approximately 2,900 SANDF soldiers was authorized by President Cyril Ramaphosa earlier this month to provide support in combating illicit armed factions in the eastern region of the DRC, as part of the country’s obligation towards the Southern African Development Community (SADC) mission to the DRC.
Speaking at a media briefing following the EFF’s manifesto launch, Julius Malema criticized the deployment, labelling it as “out of order” and calling for its immediate cessation.
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While expressing support for South Africa assisting the DRC, Malema questioned the suitability of SANDF soldiers for the mission, stating that “our army can’t look after cabbages.”
He accused the African National Congress (ANC)-led government of neglecting the SANDF’s financial needs, resulting in a weakened military. Malema highlighted the recent mortar bomb attack that claimed the lives of two people and argued that the soldiers were ill-prepared and at risk of being killed in the DRC.
He emphasized the need for the army to be properly trained and equipped, stating that the EFF’s manifesto includes a commitment to finance and strengthen the military. Malema also referenced a previous attack on the SANDF’s base in the Central African Republic, questioning the army’s vulnerability and lack of preparedness.
The EFF leader further criticized the SANDF’s response to a veld fire that engulfed the military’s combat training centre in Lohatla, Northern Cape, last year. He argued that the army’s inability to extinguish the fire demonstrated their lack of capacity to handle emergencies and protect their assets.
Malema concluded by asserting that he would never support the deployment of South African soldiers under the current circumstances and stressed the importance of equipping and retraining the army.
In response to Malema’s criticism, President Ramaphosa defended the soldiers’ deployment during a parliamentary session, emphasizing South Africa’s commitment to peacekeeping and peace-building efforts on the continent. He applauded the bravery of the defence force personnel and acknowledged the risks they face in making Africa a more peaceful and stable continent.
While Malema’s concerns about the readiness and capabilities of the SANDF are valid, it is essential to strike a balance between addressing these issues and fulfilling South Africa’s obligations as a member of the SADC mission.
It is crucial to invest in the training, equipment, and resources necessary to ensure the effectiveness and safety of the military. By doing so, South Africa can contribute to peacekeeping efforts while safeguarding its soldiers’ well-being.
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