Urgent Calls for Resignation of Defence Minister Angie Motshekga Following Deaths of SA Soldiers in DRC

The tragedy involving the death of 14 South African soldiers in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has sparked significant political and national security concerns, leading to urgent calls for Defence Minister Angie Motshekga’s resignation. During a spirited debate in Parliament, Democratic Alliance (DA) MP Chris Hattingh strongly criticized Motshekga's appointment and leadership, questioning the rationale behind her role at such a crucial time for South Africa’s Defence Force.

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) fatalities occurred amid hostilities with M23 rebels in Eastern DRC, causing a national outcry and prompting President Cyril Ramaphosa to demand that all government ministers participate in the parliamentary debate. This discussion focused primarily on the recent casualties and their broader implications for national security and the SANDF’s future operations.

During the debate, MP Hattingh argued for an immediate withdrawal of South African troops from the DRC and demanded that Minister Motshekga step down, asserting that the current strategy and leadership in the Defence Ministry are inadequate. "The time for excuses is over," Hattingh stated, reflecting a growing dissatisfaction among the MPs regarding the ongoing underfunding and under-resourcing of the SANDF. This sentiment was echoed by several members of the Defence and Military Veterans Committees, who have also called for a thorough investigation into the events leading to the soldiers' deaths.

The bodies of the deceased soldiers are currently in Uganda, awaiting repatriation to South Africa, with national flags being flown at half-mast across the country in their honor. The loss has raised pertinent questions about the wellbeing and support levels for SANDF personnel deployed in such conflict zones.

As Parliament debates the appropriate measures to commemorate the fallen soldiers and reassess South Africa’s involvement in the DRC, the focus remains intensely on Minister Motshekga’s ability to manage and rectify the issues plaguing the Defence Force. This incident has not only stirred a national debate about military strategy and foreign policy but has also highlighted the critical need for a reassessment of how South Africa engages in foreign peacekeeping missions under clear and effective leadership.