Turmoil in South African Defence: Calls for Minister Angie Motshekga's Resignation Intensify

Amidst growing political pressure and public outcry, South Africa's Defence Minister Angie Motshekga faces intense scrutiny and calls for her resignation related to her handling of South Africa’s military involvement in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The controversy was sparked by recent events where 14 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) members were killed during clashes with M23 rebels.

The situation escalated during a special parliamentary session on Monday, where multiple parties expressed their dissatisfaction with Minister Motshekga’s leadership. ActionSA's Athol Trollip highlighted the minister's admission of a “lack of strategy” in her responses to parliamentary inquiries, demanding her immediate resignation and the return of South African troops by month's end.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have also voiced significant concerns. DA’s Chris Hattingh questioned the rationale behind Motshekga’s appointment and advocated for an immediate withdrawal from the DRC. Julius Malema of the EFF criticized the government for inadequately equipping the military, pointing out the disparity in arms and intelligence between the SANDF and the M23, reportedly backed by Rwandan President Paul Kagame.

Contrasting these calls, the Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Defence labeled them as opportunistic. Dakota Legoete, the committee's Chairperson, defended Motshekga by emphasizing her recent appointment and the pre-existing deployment of troops to the DRC.

Despite the controversy, Minister Motshekga remains steadfast. She condemned the M23’s actions as a breach of the Nairobi peace accord and assured parliament that the repatriation of the deceased soldiers’ bodies from Uganda is scheduled by Thursday this week.

This incident not only casts a spotlight on South Africa’s military strategies and diplomatic stances but also poses serious questions about leadership and accountability within the nation’s defence structure. As the political drama unfolds, the country waits to see if these events will lead to transformative shifts in policy or merely end as another episode of political skirmish.