SANDF chief in hot water over 'Iran political solidarity' remarks

UNDERFIRE South African National Defence Force (SANDF) chief General Rudzani Maphwanya's visit to Iran was ill-advised, especially at the time of heightened geopolitics including a tense standoff with the US.

- MASHUDU SADIKE

This is according to the Presidency as Maphwanya continues to face increasing scrutiny following his recent trip to Iran, with questions being raised about his adherence to established foreign policy protocols.

During his visit to Tehran, Iran, Maphwanya reportedly expressed complete political solidarity with the nation.

His controversial remarks have emerged amidst existing tensions in South Africa's relationships with key trading partners, particularly the US.

This situation is further complicated by the US having implemented a 30% tariff on South African goods, citing concerns about unfair trade practices.

“The expectation is that the General should have been a lot more circumspect with the comments he makes, which delved into the area of foreign policy which only the president as well as the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) are responsible for.