2 SA soldiers killed in DRC – Julius Malema says army can’t even look after cabbages

Julius Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has called for the deployment of South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to be rescinded.

The deployment of 2,900 SANDF soldiers was authorized by President Cyril Ramaphosa earlier this month to support the fight against illicit armed factions in the eastern region of the DRC.

Malema criticized the deployment, stating that it was “out of order” and called for the mission to be stopped immediately.

While he expressed support for South Africa helping the DRC, he argued that the SANDF soldiers were not fit for purpose and accused the ANC-led government of leaving the SANDF financially crippled.

The deployment of SANDF soldiers to the DRC is part of South Africa’s obligation towards the Southern African Development Community (SADC) mission to the country.

The year-long deployment, costing R2 billion, is aimed at combating armed groups and promoting stability in the region.

Malema’s criticism of the deployment raises questions about the readiness and capabilities of the SANDF.

He argued that the army was not adequately equipped to handle the mission and compared them to workers who could not even look after cabbages.

“Our army can’t look after cabbages. I can’t hire them at my farm to look after cabbages. We just don’t have the army,” Malema said.

The EFF leader’s comments highlight concerns about the financial state of the SANDF and the government’s prioritization of military spending.

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