Gayton McKenzie, leader of the Patriotic Alliance, recently challenged Members of Parliament (MPs) to take more decisive action in response to the deaths of 14 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The soldiers died last month while on a peacekeeping mission, and their bodies have not yet been repatriated. McKenzie expressed his frustration during an urgent National Assembly debate, urging MPs to stop debating and take action, stating that it was time for those with military titles to demonstrate true leadership and fight for the country.
McKenzie’s call to action was clear: instead of debating in Parliament, MPs should join the battlefront and ensure that the perpetrators responsible for killing the soldiers face consequences. He emphasized that the nation needed soldiers, not political figures with empty titles. McKenzie vowed to be one of the first to enlist if the opportunity arose, underscoring the urgency of the situation as families of the fallen soldiers awaited the repatriation of their loved ones.
While McKenzie’s remarks sparked strong reactions, other MPs also weighed in on the matter. Edward Ntshingila from the uMkhonto Wesizwe (MK) party acknowledged South Africa’s responsibility to maintain peace and stability in Africa, particularly in the DRC, a strategic ally. He stressed that peacekeeping missions must be fully supported by the government and adequately equipped. Meanwhile, Julius Malema from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) criticized the government’s neglect in ensuring that soldiers were properly prepared for combat, calling the lack of military readiness a serious concern.
The debate also included suggestions for withdrawal. DA MP Chris Hattingh proposed that South Africa follow the lead of Malawi, which recently withdrew its peacekeeping forces. On the other hand, Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Angie Motshekga, assured Parliament that the remains of the 14 soldiers would be repatriated by Thursday, despite the logistical delays that prevented the return of their bodies earlier in the week.
