Bring back our troops: organsations

A political party and a trade union called on Monday for the remaining South African soldiers in the Central African Republic to be brought back home.

 

 

President Jacob Zuma had announced that thirteen South African soldiers were killed and 27 wounded in clashes with rebels. One was still missing.

 

"We believe all soldiers should be removed from the area immediately to prevent further loss of life," said Freedom Front Plus spokesman Pieter Groenewald in a statement.

 

He said the government needed to take full responsibility for the deaths incurred.

 

"It appears as if President Jacob Zuma had without careful consideration decided to deploy defence force members in the CAR without proper logistical and air support for such operations."

 

Groenewald said without this kind of support, South African troops could not take on peace operations.

 

"It is therefore not surprising that the tragedy took place and it could be repeated if the government does not drastically intervene."

 

On Monday, Zuma said the South African government had not taken any decision to withdraw the army from CAR.

 

"There has been no reason for us to leave. What we've been looking at is how do we enforce our forces, how do we ensure that there are no further casualties," said Zuma.

 

"There is no reason for us to issue a command for withdrawal."

 

The SA National Defence Union (Sandu) said the government needed to make a decision to bring the troops home.

 

South African troops in CAR had been given "a mandate that is impossible to execute," said SANDU national secretary Pikkie Greef.

 

In January this year, Zuma authorised the deployment of up to 400 South African soldiers to CAR as part of a military co-operation agreement between the two countries.

 

Only 200 of the soldiers had been sent at the time of the attack and it was this group which, last weekend, fought armed forces numbering over 1000 in a high tempo battle which lasted nine hours until the rebels raised a white flag and asked for a cease fire.

 

"South African soldiers inflicted heavy casualties among the attacking bandits," said Zuma.

 

Earlier on Monday, the SA Security Forces Union (Sasfu) said South Africa did have a responsiblity to deploy its military to help keep peace on the continent.

 

Nevertheless, Sasfu president Bheki Mvovo said if, in hindsight, it was shown that the troops had not been given adequate support, "tough action should be taken."

 

- Sapa