South African Defence Minister Angie Motshekga faces increasing calls to brief Parliament on the deaths of 13 troops in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) since the weekend. The Democratic Alliance (DA) criticized the cancellation of a parliamentary defense committee meeting, originally scheduled to discuss the situation. While Motshekga has not publicly commented, indications suggest she will address the committee next week. The DA expressed concern over the soldiers' safety in the conflict-ridden region, questioning their ability to withdraw from the M23-controlled area. The African Transformation Movement (ATM) also demanded the minister's appearance before Parliament's joint standing committee on defense, urging scrutiny of the peacekeeping mission's budget and resources.
CAPE TOWN - Pressure is mounting for Defence Minister Angie Motshekga to brief Parliament on the deployment of soldiers in the Democratic Republic of the Congo following the deaths of 13 troops since the weekend.
Although Motshekga has not made any public statement regarding the latest fatalities, indications are that she will brief the parliamentary committee next week. The DA's Chris Hattingh is accusing Legoete of attempting to stifle debate and oversight on the DRC matter.
DRC South Africa Parliament Defence Minister Troop Deaths
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