Dear Editor
The Democratic Alliance (DA) will use the upcoming meeting of the Portfolio Committee on Defence on 9 May to question Minister Angie Motshekga on the SANDF’s troubled deployment and disorderly withdrawal from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The withdrawal of South African troops from eastern DRC has been marred by poor planning, vague objectives, and a disturbing lack of transparency. What should have been a coordinated and strategic exit has instead become a confused and dangerous process, placing our soldiers at risk and leaving the nation with more questions than answers.
The SADC Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC), whose mandate effectively expired in March, is now pulling out of Goma and Sake—areas where South African troops have remained for months following the deadly events of January. Parliament has received no formal briefing, and the public is being kept in the dark.
Reports confirmed by soldiers on the ground indicate that SANDF troops, along with Tanzanian and Malawian forces, are withdrawing via Tanzania. Alarming accounts suggest that M23 rebels—widely believed to be backed by Rwanda—are inspecting SANDF military equipment as the convoys pass.
Members of the elite quick reaction force (QRF) have described this experience as both frustrating and humiliating.
There has been no official communication from the Department of Defence, SANDF, or SADC. It has instead emerged that safe passage for our troops had to be negotiated with Rwanda after M23 seized control of vital infrastructure.
Soldiers continue to report logistical failures, poor communication, and uncertainty about the status of military vehicles and heavy weaponry.
Fourteen South African soldiers lost their lives in the Battle for Goma. The lack of accountability since then is unacceptable.
At the 9 May committee meeting, the DA will put the following questions to Minister Motshekga:
- What were the terms and scope of the SANDF’s deployment to the DRC under the SAMIDRC, and why has Parliament not been fully briefed?
- What operational failures led to the current disorganised withdrawal, and how is the Department ensuring the safety of remaining personnel and equipment?
- What is the current status of SANDF assets deployed in the DRC, including any that may be missing, damaged, or compromised?
Our soldiers deserve better. Their families deserve answers. South Africa deserves the truth.
Regards
Chris Hattingh MP
DA Spokesperson on Defence & Military Veterans