DA calls for scaling down of military parade in this year's SONA

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The Democratic Alliance (DA) says it has written to the Speaker of Parliament, Thoko Didiza, calling for the scaling down of military parade arrangements for the upcoming State of the Nation Address (SONA).

President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to deliver the address on Thursday, 6 February at the Cape Town City Hall.

DA CALLS FOR CANCELLATION OF MILITARY PARADE ARRANGEMENTS AT THIS YEAR’S SONA

DA Spokesperson on Defence & Military Veterans Chris Hattingh said they have specifically called for the cancellation of the planned fly-over by the South African Air Force, given the dire situation facing South African National Defence Force (SANDF) troops deployed in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Hattingh said it is inappropriate for government officials and dignitaries to be entertained by grand military displays “while our soldiers, under-equipped and lacking critical support, are dying on foreign soil”.

“The DA firmly believes that proceeding with a patronising presentation of military capability, while our troops face hardship abroad, is not only tone-deaf but also a gross disservice to those who have sacrificed for this country.

“We urge Parliament to act with the necessary respect and urgency by cancelling the fly-over and scaling down the military display in recognition of the challenges faced by our armed forces,” Hattingh said.

The DA’s call comes as the SANDF has confirmed that the death toll of its members who have been killed in the DRC has increased to 14. One soldier who was admitted to hospital succumbed to his injuries.

ROAD CLOSURES AND RESTRICTIONS IN CAPE TOWN CBD

Meanwhile, the City of Cape Town has urged motorists to find alternative routes due to several road closures and restrictions.

The City of Cape Town said road closures before, during, and after the SONA will affect the normal flow of traffic in and around the city bowl and the availability of parking spaces.

“Signage will be installed in the affected areas; however, we urge motorists to please check the list of closures carefully and to plan their routes accordingly,” the metro municipality said.