SANDF denies claims of rift between Defence Chief and Minister Motshekga
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has dismissed reports suggesting that its Chief, General Rudzani Maphwanya, is defiant towards Defence and Military Veterans Minister Angie Motshekga.
The clarification comes after media reports suggested a strained relationship between General Maphwanya and Minister Motshekga over an unresolved matter.
The City Press has reported that Maphwanya has ignored repeated instructions by the minister to re-instate Colonel Eufene Motati.
It follows a ruling by the military Ombuds that Motati was unlawfully dismissed in 2019 and that charges of sexual misconduct against him were untested.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the SANDF described the allegations as “incorrect, misleading, and irresponsible,” stressing that they misrepresent the facts of the matter.
"The insinuation that the Chief of the SANDF is ‘defying’ or ‘giving the middle finger’ to the Minister is baseless. General Maphwanya remains fully committed to the constitutional authority of the Minister and is engaging the matter with the utmost respect and diligence," said SANDF spokesperson Prince Tshabalala.
The Defence Force emphasised that in line with good governance and military protocol, General Maphwanya is currently consulting with Minister Motshekga and the Military Ombudsman on the matter.
The SANDF further assured the public that due process is being followed.
"Any final determination will be made in strict compliance with the law, established military procedures, and the directives of the Executive Authority," Tshabalala added.
The defence body added that it does not ordinarily engage in public discussions about internal administrative matters, ministerial decisions, or Ombudsman recommendations.
ALSO READ
