Politicians Undermining SANDF, Turning It into a 'Mickey Mouse Force,' Says Top General
The mortal remains of 14 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) members, who tragically lost their lives in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), were laid to rest at various locations across South Africa.
During the funeral of Staff Sergeant Ishmael Molahlehi in the Free State over the weekend, SANDF Lieutenant-General Peter Ntshavheni Maphaha issued a stern warning to politicians, accusing them of weakening the military.
"South African borders are porous because you, the politicians, have chosen to create a Mickey Mouse defence force," Maphaha stated.
He emphasized South Africa's role as a 'big brother' in Africa, given its economic and geopolitical standing. However, he argued that the country could not maintain this leadership position without a strong military presence.
"You cannot be a big brother if you are unable to wield a stick that will make people afraid," he added.
Maphaha's remarks shed light on the numerous challenges facing the SANDF, both domestically and internationally, as the force mourns the loss of its soldiers in the DRC.
He further stressed the symbolic importance of national defence, drawing a comparison: "What we give to the SANDF should reflect the value we place on our security. How many of you would build an expensive and beautiful house without fencing or protecting it? I don't think any of you would do that."
Throughout the service, Staff Sergeant Molahlehi was remembered for his honour, responsibility, and sacrifice-qualities Maphaha urged all SANDF members to uphold.
As more funerals for the fallen soldiers were held over the weekend, Maphaha concluded by calling on politicians to prioritize equipping the SANDF with the resources it needs to safeguard the nation, amid growing concerns about its readiness.
During the funeral of Staff Sergeant Ishmael Molahlehi in the Free State over the weekend, SANDF Lieutenant-General Peter Ntshavheni Maphaha issued a stern warning to politicians, accusing them of weakening the military.
"South African borders are porous because you, the politicians, have chosen to create a Mickey Mouse defence force," Maphaha stated.
He emphasized South Africa's role as a 'big brother' in Africa, given its economic and geopolitical standing. However, he argued that the country could not maintain this leadership position without a strong military presence.
"You cannot be a big brother if you are unable to wield a stick that will make people afraid," he added.
Maphaha's remarks shed light on the numerous challenges facing the SANDF, both domestically and internationally, as the force mourns the loss of its soldiers in the DRC.
He further stressed the symbolic importance of national defence, drawing a comparison: "What we give to the SANDF should reflect the value we place on our security. How many of you would build an expensive and beautiful house without fencing or protecting it? I don't think any of you would do that."
Throughout the service, Staff Sergeant Molahlehi was remembered for his honour, responsibility, and sacrifice-qualities Maphaha urged all SANDF members to uphold.
As more funerals for the fallen soldiers were held over the weekend, Maphaha concluded by calling on politicians to prioritize equipping the SANDF with the resources it needs to safeguard the nation, amid growing concerns about its readiness.
