Dear Editor
The DA rejects and condemns President Ramaphosa’s decision to clear South African Defence Force (SANDF) Chief, General Rudzani Maphwanya, after his reckless political visit to Iran three weeks ago. This decision undermines the credibility of the SANDF, and has undermined the legitimacy of government.
That an SANDF general was in Tehran pledging “common goals” with Iran, endorsing its stance on the Middle East, and promising deeper strategic ties has waded into the territory of civilian government actors, and is effectively an act of insubordination to the commander in chief.
Members of the SANDF are required to remain apolitical at all times. Yet, in this case, the country’s most senior military official abandoned neutrality and ventured into the realm of foreign policy. This prerogative rests with the President and Ministry of International Relations.
Additionally, these comments can be seen in violation of the military code, which states that all members of the SANDF must refrain from making political comments and are expected to be apolitical at all times.
The General’s comments drew condemnation from both the Minister of International Relations and the Office of the President at the time, while also triggering interest from democratic allies.
The president, as the Commander in Chief of SANDF, had at his disposal multiple actions he could have taken to hold General Maphwanya accountable, including:
- A letter of reprimand
- Relief of Command (firing)
- Denial of further promotions
- Forced retirement
Instead, Ramaphosa chose to let a General off the hook, for grossly overstepping his command and overtaking the roles of elected government officials.
President Ramaphosa appears to prefer expediency, and sweeping this under the carpet, to real accountability.
This failure of consequence management has left South Africans without clarity on foreign policy, while damaging the country’s international credibility and national security. At a time of heightened global tensions, this reckless conduct threatens to erode South Africa’s standing among democratic allies and embolden ties with authoritarian regimes.
This decision has set a dangerous precedent in a country that relies on the professionalism and impartiality of its military to uphold democracy. This is a serious stain of illegitimacy on the President of the Republic.
Regards
Chris Hattingh MP
DA Spokesperson on Defence & Military Veterans