Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has sharply criticized South Africa’s military preparedness, labeling it a disgrace and demanding the withdrawal of troops from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Speaking at the St. Paul African Apostolic Church’s Thanksgiving Feast on Sunday, February 17, Malema condemned the condition of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), arguing that soldiers were being deployed into conflict zones without adequate weaponry, intelligence, or logistical backing.
‘Soldiers Without Arms Are Farm Workers’
Malema likened the deployment of unarmed troops to sending farm workers into battle.
“The only thing that distinguishes a soldier from a farm worker is being armed,” he stated, criticizing the government for failing to properly equip its forces.
He blamed recent casualties among South African soldiers in eastern DRC on inadequate military resources. Malema also claimed that helicopters sent to the region have been out of service since arrival and that South Africa currently lacks operational fighter jets.
Lack of Resources Endangering Troops
According to Malema, SANDF soldiers in the DRC even ran out of ammunition and had to request more from South Africa—only to be left stranded due to logistical failures.
He also criticized the lack of modern military technology, saying that troops were deployed without drones or intelligence support, leaving them vulnerable to attacks.
“They woke up to find the enemy in their own camp,” he said, questioning why the government continues to send unprepared troops into conflict zones.
Despite the recent deaths of 14 soldiers, Malema noted that instead of withdrawing forces, the government deployed an additional 800 troops. He went on to claim that SANDF soldiers in the DRC were now effectively under the control of the M23 rebel group.
“They must get permission from M23 to go to the toilet. They must ask M23 for water,” Malema alleged.
Call for Immediate Withdrawal
Malema urged the South African government to pull its troops out of the DRC and focus on strengthening its military instead of engaging in foreign missions.
“A country without a strong army is powerless,” he warned, citing nations like China and the United States that prioritize military investment.
The EFF has also condemned the government for delaying the repatriation of fallen soldiers’ remains, calling the eight-day wait insensitive and distressing for grieving families.
The debate over South Africa’s military capability and involvement in the DRC remains ongoing, as the country continues deploying troops under the United Nations peacekeeping mission and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) alliance.
ALSO READ : Khanyi Mbau and Kudzai Mushonga Rekindle Their Romance
