It is time for President Ramaphosa to make a address the nation following the killing of another 4 SANDF soldiers in the DRC
Build One South Africa (BOSA) mourns the tragic loss of another four South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers who were killed while deployed in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) – bringing the total number of deaths to 13.
These South Africans paid the ultimate price in a mission purportedly aimed at stopping rebel groups in the region. We extend our heartfelt condolences to their families and loved ones.
It has been alleged that this conflict is not just about maintaining peace and defeating rebel forces; it is deeply tied to the vast wealth of natural resources beneath the ground in the DRC.
For too long, South Africans have been kept in the dark about the true motives and implications of our military’s involvement in this resource-rich yet war-torn region. We deserve answers
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President Cyril Ramaphosa must urgently address the nation. This matter requires a “family meeting” to take citizens into his confidence. The President must tell us what is really going on in the DRC and why South African lives are being lost.
Is our involvement in the DRC a selfless mission for regional peace, or are we entangled in a dangerous geopolitical game driven by resource exploitation and private interests? It can only be national interests that require military power to be deployed to another country.
South Africans cannot afford to see more lives lost without clarity and accountability. We call on the President to:
- Provide a full and transparent account of SANDF operations in the DRC, including the strategic objectives, risks, and expected outcomes.
- Disclose the nature of agreements, if any, between South Africa, the DRC, and other international players regarding resource extraction in the region.
- Reveal whether soldiers deployed to the DRC have been adequately resourced
- Ensure adequate support for the families of fallen soldiers, including counselling and financial assistance.
South Africa’s foreign policy must prioritize both the dignity of our soldiers and the sovereignty of African nations. We cannot continue sacrificing our citizens’ lives without a clear, honest, and justifiable cause.
It is time for President Ramaphosa to lead with transparency and integrity on this critical issue. We will not rest until we have the answers that the families of our soldiers and the South African public deserve.
Media Statement by
Roger Solomons: BOSA Acting Spokesperson
Tuesday 28 January 2025
Media Enquiries:
Roger Solomons – BOSA Acting Spokesperson – 072 299 3551