Tragedy struck in the Democratic Republic of Congo as three South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers were killed and 14 others injured during a mission aimed at restoring peace. This incident ignited widespread condemnation and calls for the withdrawal of South African troops. The SANDU, RISE Mzansi, and the DA criticized the lack of transparency from the SANDF leadership and highlighted the dire conditions faced by soldiers in the DRC. Reports indicate a shortage of essential resources, including ammunition, raising serious concerns about the safety and preparedness of South African troops.
Three members of the South Africa n National Defence Force ( SANDF ) were killed and at least 14 other soldiers injured while serving in Sake, Democratic Republic of Congo ( DRC ), on a mission to restore stability and peace in the eastern region. This tragic incident marks a significant escalation of violence in the DRC .
The South African National Defence Union (SANDU), political parties RISE Mzansi, and the Democratic Alliance (DA) extended condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased soldiers. SANDU expressed concerns over the lack of communication from the SANDF leadership, stating that the public and even ministers are often kept in the dark for extended periods regarding critical information. They called on President Cyril Ramaphosa to address the nation and provide clarity on the ongoing situation in the DRC, emphasizing the need for open communication and decisive action. RISE Mzansi echoed SANDU's call for information, appealing to Defence Minister Angie Motshekga or Ramaphosa to urgently brief the nation on the status of SA’s mission to the DRC. The party's leader, Songezo Zibi, highlighted the challenges faced by SA soldiers, citing under-funding, insufficient resources, and mismanagement as contributing factors. He expressed concerns about the potential risks to soldiers' lives and reported that ammunition was dwindling in some units. Zibi emphasized the need to address the systemic issues within the SANDF, citing the Auditor-General's report which underscored the significant governance and resource constraints faced by SA's armed forces. The DA spokesperson on Defence and Military Veterans, MP Chris Hattingh, condemned the lack of information regarding the casualties and called for the withdrawal of SANDF forces from the DRC. He stated that the continued deployment of under-trained, under-equipped, and unsupported South African soldiers in a volatile region is unsustainable. Motshekga is set to return from the DRC today following a four-day visit to assess operational conditions, soldier welfare, and strengthen bilateral relations between South Africa and the DRC. The SANDF and the Presidency have been approached for comment but had not responded at the time of publication
SANDF DRC South Africa Military Conflict Casualty Defence Withdrawal Transparency
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