Motshekga defends her response

UNDERFUNDING CLAIMS

- MAYIBONGWE MAQHINA

DEFENCE Minister Angie Motshekga said her leadership and actions taken amid South African Navy Chief Vice-Admiral Monde Lobese remarks about the underfunding of the country's defence capabilities were consistent with her oath of office.

Motshekga stated that the Department of Defence operates under strict governance, command and control protocols.

"When concerns are raised by any senior officer, including the Chief of SA Navy, the matter must be processed through appropriate command channels, subjected to factual verification and handled in a manner that preserves the integrity of the institution," she said.

Motshekga's remarks came in light of a recent parliamentary inquiry from EFF MP Carl Niehaus, who questioned whether Motshekga's actions towards Lobese were compatible with her oath of office and the principles of transparency and accountability.

Lobese, addressing an event in November, voiced alarm over the impact of persistent budget cuts on the SANDF's operational readiness.

"I often find myself questioning whether those responsible for making significant decisions, particularly regarding the funding of the defence force, may be directly or indirectly influenced by these drug cartels, illegal traders, maritime criminals and human traffickers.