
On Sunday 26 January, the EFF released a statement sending condolences to the families of the nine SANDF soldiers, who lost their lives in the peacekeeping missions taking place in the DRC.
Deployed by the South African Development Community Mission in the DRC (SAMDRC) and the United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission (MONUSCO), the EFF criticises the lack of urgency and respect in the announcement of their passing.
In their statement they mentioned that they aquired the information of the fallen soldiers not from SANDF but from foreign news outlets. Stating,
This demonstrates glaring failure in leadership and crisis communication
Coupled with the soldiers lack of resources and the poor handling of these tragic incidents, the EFF decided to call for Minister of Defence, Angie Motsega’s immediate resignation.
Additionally, they demand for there to be an emergency parliamentary sitting to discuss the withdrawal plan of any remaining soldiers and for President Cyril Ramaposa to be held accountable.
In the meantime, the EFF awaits a response from the parliament regarding the withdrawal of the remaining soldiers as well as the appropriate accountability being taken by the leaders.