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SANDU Denies Claims That SANDF Soldiers Are Hostages in DRC
The SA National Defence Union (SANDU) has dismissed claims that South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers stationed in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are being held hostage by M23 rebels.
Malema Criticises Military Preparedness and Calls for Withdrawal
Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema recently condemned South Africa’s military preparedness, calling it a national embarrassment and urging the government to withdraw troops from the DRC. Speaking at the St. Paul African Apostolic Church’s Thanksgiving Feast, Malema argued that soldiers were being sent into conflict zones without adequate arms, intelligence, or logistical support.
Following the deaths of 14 SANDF members, Malema insisted that the logical step should have been to bring the soldiers home. Instead, an additional 800 troops were deployed. He went on to claim that the remaining SANDF personnel were now effectively under M23 rebel control.
Also Read: South African Parliament to Hold Urgent Debate on Fallen SANDF Soldiers in DRC
“For them to go to the toilet, they must get permission from M23. For them to get water, they must ask M23,” Malema alleged.
He called for the immediate withdrawal of South African troops and urged the government to strengthen the country’s military before engaging in foreign interventions.
SANDU Rejects Hostage Claims
However, SANDU’s chief negotiator, Jeff Dubazana, refuted these claims in an interview with broadcaster Newzroom Afrika, stating that SANDF soldiers are not being held hostage but are confined to their bases.
“They are simply in their bases. What happened is that there was a negotiation around a ceasefire. Remember, on January 22 and 23, the rebels attempted to overrun our base at Sake. We heavily engaged them, and nine of our gallant soldiers lost their lives. Now they know it is not easy to attack our soldiers,” Dubazana explained.
He reassured the public that while the soldiers are in a war zone, they are relatively safe and prepared for any potential threats.
“Our soldiers are not under M23 control. They are staying in their camps in adherence to the ceasefire agreement,” he said, adding that leaving the bases could lead to a resumption of fighting.
Despite tensions in the region, the SANDF remains stationed in the DRC as part of a broader peacekeeping mission.
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