By Staff Reporter
The Democratic Alliance (DA) is expected to press for answers in Parliament regarding the ongoing deployment of South African National Defence Force (SANDF) members in conflict-ridden eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Following approval from National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza, the DA secured a debate on the recent crisis involving South African soldiers in the region.
The debate will take place at 14:00 on Monday 10 February.
Last week, 13 SANDF members were killed during clashes with the M23 rebel group near Goma, the provincial capital of eastern DRC.
Deployed under the auspices of Southern African Development Community and United Nations peacekeeping mandates, these soldiers were engaged in intense combat over two days.
Chris Hattingh, DA Defence and Military Veterans spokesperson, described the past week as unprecedented in South Africa’s democracy.
“Our troops have been thrust into active conflict, rather than a peacekeeping role,” Hattingh said.
“Thirteen service members have lost their lives, with many more injured. We mourn and honor them.”
Hattingh reiterated the DA’s demand for clarity on the strategic advice behind the SANDF’s deployment and questioned the adequacy of support, including air support, provided to the troops.
Concerns raised by the South African National Defence Union and military experts regarding the need for enhanced medical facilities, logistical capabilities, and combat support systems, such as radar defense, have underscored the urgency of the situation.
The DA further criticised the government’s handling of information dissemination, noting that the public learned of the tragedy through social media rather than official channels from Defence Minister Angie Motshekga or President Cyril Ramaphosa.
“The mission in the DRC is etched in our history books, and we will use all powers of Parliament in ensuring accountability and preventing this disaster from ever happening again. Our troops and South Africans deserve no less,” said Hattingh.
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