National Assembly Calls Urgent Debate on SANDF Losses in DRC
**Special Parliamentary Sitting on SANDF Tragedy**
The National Assembly has scheduled an urgent debate on Monday to discuss the tragic deaths of 14 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The special sitting has been convened as a matter of national importance, focusing on the challenges faced by South African troops deployed in conflict zones.
The debate will be held under the theme: **”The Recent Casualties Incurred by the SANDF in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Their Implications for the Defence Force.”** All cabinet members have been requested to attend, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
## **National Mourning and Presidential Directive**
President Cyril Ramaphosa has ordered that the national flag be flown at half-mast until Friday, February 14, as a mark of respect for the fallen soldiers. The 14 SANDF members lost their lives while participating in a peacekeeping mission aimed at stabilizing the volatile eastern region of the DRC. They were deployed alongside soldiers from other Southern African nations in efforts to protect local communities from armed insurgents.
## **Parliament to Determine Further Commemoration Efforts**
Beyond Monday’s debate, Parliament has yet to finalize additional ways to honor the deceased soldiers. Since their deaths in Goma in January, Members of Parliament (MPs) have been seeking further details regarding the conditions and safety of South African troops deployed in the region. Concerns over the well-being of SANDF personnel stationed in the DRC have been raised, with calls for improved operational support and resources.
## **Concerns Over Underfunding of SANDF**
MPs have once again criticized the persistent underfunding of the SANDF, arguing that proper support and capacitation of deployed troops is crucial. The financial constraints faced by the military have raised concerns about the preparedness of soldiers engaged in high-risk missions abroad. Parliamentarians stress that ensuring adequate funding and equipment for deployed forces is essential to preventing further casualties.
## **Calls for Investigation into the Loss of Lives**
The **Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans** and the **Joint Standing Committee on Defence** have both called for a thorough investigation into the events leading to the soldiers’ deaths. The committees have requested a closed meeting where the SANDF can provide detailed operational insights and defense intelligence to determine what went wrong.
The tragic loss of these soldiers has reignited discussions about the broader role of South Africa’s military in international peacekeeping efforts. Questions are being raised about the risks involved and whether South African troops are adequately equipped to handle such missions.
As the National Assembly prepares to deliberate on these pressing issues, the country remains in mourning for the brave soldiers who lost their lives in the pursuit of peace. The outcome of Monday’s debate is expected to shape future decisions regarding South Africa’s military commitments and the safety of its deployed personnel.
