By Marcus Moloko
Former ANC insider and now EFF MP Carl Niehaus has accused the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) of mismanagement and neglect after video footage emerged showing crumbling ablution facilities at a Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown) army base.
“I find no pleasure in posting this terrible video of the disgusting condition of one of the bathrooms at 6 SAI in Grahamstown. However, it is high time to reveal the abuse that our SANDF soldiers are being subjected to, and to expose the senior generals. Enough is really enough,” Niehaus wrote in a social media post this week.
The footage, which showed broken and unsanitary bathrooms, drew swift response from the SANDF, which confirmed the building belonged to the 6 South African Infantry Battalion (6SAI Bn).
“The building in question is not occupied and therefore not being used for accommodation or any other purpose,” the SANDF said in a statement. It added that the Defence Works Regiment had scoped refurbishment plans, and that the building would remain empty until renovations were complete.”
“Until such refurbishment has been completed, the building will remain unoccupied. The SANDF remains committed to maintaining and upgrading its infrastructure to ensure that its facilities provide a conducive environment for the well-being of all members,” it said.
Niehaus rejected that version, saying the footage was shot by a soldier stationed at the battalion.
“While unpleasant to examine closely, it clearly shows that the toilets had recently been used when the footage was recorded. The soldier shared it in outrage, as a desperate plea for help regarding the appalling conditions he and his colleagues endure,” he said.
“To protect the soldier, I cannot reveal his identity. It is a grave issue that SANDF members fear retribution and victimisation if they speak out about the terrible living and working conditions at their bases — a fear rooted in a history of such reprisals,” he added.
He accused the SANDF of dishonesty and of attempting to cover up the “dire circumstances” soldiers were subjected to.
The row comes amid wider criticism of the SANDF, which, according to Defence Web, faces a R41.2 billion budget shortfall, ageing equipment, and chronic logistical gaps. Much of its spending is consumed by personnel costs, leaving limited funding to repair or maintain facilities or procure resources.
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