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Defence Committee Calls For Repatriation of Fallen Soldiers in DRC

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The Parliament’s Defence Committee calls for repatriation fallen soldiers lost during the a confrontation with M23 rebels in the DRC. (Photo credit: @PetersWonderboy/”X”)

In a meeting held on Tuesday 4 February 2025, the Parliament’s defence committee called on the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to urgently bring home the remains of 14 soldiers killed during a confrontation with M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

According to reports, 14 soldiers are said to have died in the DRC and the committee sat to understand the circumstances that may have lead to the death after their confrontation with the M23.

The Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans and the Joint Standing Committee on Defence met on Tuesday to discuss the tragic incident. Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee, Dakota Legoete, stressed the importance of repatriation.

This is vital to ensure that families are afforded an opportunity to mourn and the assurance that repatriation is imminent and should be welcomed.

The committees also urged SANDF to provide proper medical care for injured soldiers and to support the families of those who died. Mr. Phiroane Phala, Co-Chairperson of the Joint Standing Committee on Defence, emphasized the importance of transparency to maintain morale.

An investigation was called to understand what led to the loss of life. The committees praised efforts by Southern African and East African leaders to find peaceful solutions and welcomed the current ceasefire.

Malusi Gigaba, Co-Chairperson of the Joint Standing Committee on Defence, highlighted the importance of diplomacy.

The reality is that it is only through dialogue that the DRC matter can be amicably resolved and the miliary can only create space for a political solution.

Despite concerns over SANDF’s general underfunding, the committees noted that current deployments in the DRC are well-equipped. They stressed the need for continued support in terms of air, logistics, and intelligence to ensure successful operations.The committees also resolved to hold a closed meeting with SANDF to address operational security issues.

They defended South Africa’s involvement in international peacekeeping, with Mr. Gigaba stating, “South Africa is a role player in a global system and an active member of SADC , and the United Nations, and has a responsibility to participate in ensuring peace and security across the globe.”

Gigaba also emphasized that they should be solution-driven to contribute positively to a complex situation.

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