Thirteen South African soldiers have tragically lost their lives following intensified violence by M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The deaths, which come amid severe battles for territorial control, have sparked backlash against the South African government and military officials, with criticisms centering on their lack of accountability and failure to recognize the urgency of the soldiers' circumstances.
On January 29, 2025, the Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans (PCDMV) had scheduled to meet to discuss the situation and provide insights following these tragic events. Yet, to the dismay of many, committee chair Dakota Legoete announced the postponement of the meeting to the following Tuesday. The Minister of Defence, Angie Motshekga, is expected to present updates during this session, but the delay has stirred anger, particularly from opposition parties.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) did not hold back their frustration, labeling the government's actions as 'pathetic attempts' to evade accountability for the SANDF soldiers’ deaths. They underlined the dire conditions faced by the troops, stating, "Already, 13 of our SANDF soldiers have lost their lives over the past few days, and with the rapidly worsening situation... the danger exists for even more young soldiers to lose their lives." The EFF stressed the urgent necessity for the meeting to oversee the executive's actions as part of the legislative responsibilities.
Critics argue the failure to convene raises questions about the government’s commitment to its military personnel. Chris Hattingh, the Democratic Alliance (DA) Spokesperson on Defence & Military Veterans, condemned Legoete’s actions, citing them as stifling the committee's constitutional oversight duties. Hattingh stated, "If the Committee only meets a week from today, there is no telling how far the situation may deteriorate... This is grossly irresponsible." He also blasted President Cyril Ramaphosa for his silence on the frontline situation.
Compounding frustrations, senior SANDF officials were criticized for participating in celebratory events, including golf tournaments, amid the military crisis. Photos surfaced showing Lieutenant General Wiseman Mbambo (Chief of the South African Air Force) and Lieutenant General Lawrence Mbatha (Chief of the South African Army) enjoying their time at Copperleaf Golf Estate. Such actions have drawn outrage as many perceive them as heartless and insensitive, particularly considering the current stakes. Darren Olivier, director at African Defence Review, remarked, "This is despicable and indefensible. Both should be relieved of their posts for holding a golf day... How tone deaf and uncaring must you be to go ahead with this?"
The EFF's Carl Niehaus echoed these sentiments, demanding immediate resignations, insisting on accountability from military leaders who celebrate during dangerous times for active soldiers. Hattingh emphasized, "While our soldiers are risking their lives... high-ranking officers are celebrating and enjoying festivities.” His calls for the suspension of Armed Forces Day celebrations also highlight the discontent surrounding how the military acknowledges its personnel's sacrifices.
On the ground, the mounting conflict shows no signs of abatement as M23 rebels have reportedly asserted control over large swathes of Goma, including the airport, where SANDF troops have found themselves isolated and confined to their bases. Unconfirmed reports suggested the M23 rebels might allow South African troops to exit through Rwanda, mirroring recent instances where Romanian contractors received safe passage via the same route.
The situation remains fluid, with the fate of many SANDF soldiers currently unknown, stirring widespread concern for their safety. The Houthi M23's escalation poses not only physical dangers but also places emotional and moral pressures on both active service members and their families at home.
With 13 SANDF soldiers confirmed dead and the urgency of military operations increasing, the opposition’s calls for government accountability reflect deep-seated worries over the lives of personnel stationed abroad. The need for actionable oversight surges as lawmakers and citizens alike push for answers, advocating for the transparency and seriousness they feel should accompany discussions pertaining to the South African troops facing grave threats far from home.
Further complicity is suggested as military celebrations originally scheduled (including Air Force Prestige Evening rescheduled to June) have been postponed amid public call for solidarity with those lost and suffering. South African officials have been urged to transform this momentum of accountability and introspection within their ranks, ensuring tangible support for the soldiers at risk and recognizing the weight of their service during these turbulent times.