As SANDF troops in the Democratic Republic of Congo continue to dominate the spotlight, Helen Zille and EFF leader Julius Malema have opted to take the same stance on the matter.
With South African lives being lost amid the conflict, this unlikely duo are both calling for the same outcome: South Africa’s troops must withdraw from the region.
Malema: SANDF must withdraw
Economic Freedom Fighter leader Julius Malema went public with his opinion on the tumultuous situation this week in a post on social media.
Malema revealed that Defence Minister Angie Motshekga had opted out of a portfolio committee meeting, using the occasion to voice his opinion.
“The truth is undeniable, the SA army has surrendered, and M23 is disarming them. Today’s portfolio committee meeting has been postponed simply because the Minister of Defence chose not to appear. We cannot stand by and be complicit in this situation; we must take a stand and demand the immediate withdrawal of our soldiers from the DRC.” Julius Malema
Interestingly, Malema has also called for an urgent increase in the military budget and an overhaul before SANDF troops can be redeployed
“It is imperative that we increase the military budget, and all military equipment tenders must be halted without delay. Denel must be empowered with the mandate to produce military equipment, and our soldiers must undergo re-training before considering redeployment. We will not accept anything less.” Julius Malema
Malema slams jet claims
Malema has denounced claims that the SANDF has the support of fighter jets to the Congo in the same breathe that he has denounced President Cyril Ramaphosa for remaining ‘silent’.
“It is absolutely false that South Africa has officially sent fighter jets to the DRC; we simply do not have that capability. The president of South Africa has gone silent, and it’s clear we have the leadership we deserve.” Julius Malema
Furthermore, Malema has claimed that South Africa currently only has two working fighter jets.
“SA currently operates only two fighter jets that are in working condition. Additionally, there are no available landing facilities within the neighbouring DRC countries. The situation is stagnant and nothing substantial is being accomplished. The troop commander has conceded and struck a deal with M23, ensuring their safety in exchange for withdrawal from the DRC.”
Zille sides with EFF leader
Malema’s opinion has been seconded by Democratic Alliance’s Helen Zille, who came forward to say that this is one occasion where she agrees with the EFF head.
“Sometimes, I agree with Julius Malema.”
What is your opinion on the SANDF’s presence in the DRC?
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