Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za
3-minute read
27 February 2025 | 10:08 CAT

Defence and Military veterans parliamentary committee chairperson Dakota Legoete. Picture: Jonisayi Maromo / IOL

Public Interest South Africa has strongly condemned remarks made by Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans Chairperson, Dakota Legoete, during his recent appearance on SABC. The organisation decried Legoete’s comments as an attempt to deflect from the government’s ongoing failure to adequately support the South African National Defence Force (SANDF).

Tebogho Khaas, speaking on behalf of Public Interest SA, stated that Legoete’s criticism of Lieutenant General Maphaha’s remarks about South Africa’s porous borders and military underfunding is misplaced.

“It was baffling that Legoete lamented General Mpapa’s comments when he merely articulated what is common knowledge among South Africans. The lack of funding for border security directly contributes to rising crime rates,” Khaas told Radio Islam International.

Khaas pointed out that while Legoete admitted the military’s budget constraints are a reality, his assertion that General Maphaha’s used an inappropriate platform to voice these concerns is unfounded. The General made his comments at a funeral for fallen soldiers, an occasion where, according to Khaas, it was appropriate to discuss the dire state of military resources and accountability.

“The General, as the head of military health services, has a responsibility to ensure medical and logistical support for soldiers. If troops are not receiving adequate medical care or repatriation in a timely manner, families deserve answers,” Khaas stressed.

Public Interest SA further criticised the lack of accountability regarding delays in the repatriation of soldiers, noting that previous commitments had not been met. “Families were left in limbo for weeks with no clear communication on when their loved ones would be brought home,” Khaas stated.

Additionally, concerns were raised about the SANDF’s overall preparedness. “We portray ourselves as a well-equipped force, but in reality, our military lacks essential resources, from aircraft to properly maintained equipment,” Khaas added. He cited the absence of air cover for peacekeeping missions in the Democratic Republic of the Congo as evidence of inadequate support for troops.

Haas also questioned the political will to address these challenges. “Parliamentary hearings have failed to demand accountability from the Defence Ministry. Even during a critical session, the minister appeared disengaged,” he said.

The organisation called for immediate reforms to improve funding, transparency, and military readiness. “When funds meant for defence are misappropriated, it is the ordinary soldiers who suffer,” Khaas concluded.

Public Interest SA remains firm in its stance that the government must take urgent action to ensure the SANDF is equipped to safeguard the nation’s borders and fulfil its responsibilities in peacekeeping operations.

Listen to Mufti Yusuf Moosagie’s and Tebogho Khaas’s full interview on Your World Today.