Country can't have 'a crying general' not doing his job

ANC MP Dakota Legoete has strongly criticised comments made by South African National Defence Force (SANDF) surgeon-general Ntshavheni Maphaha.

- Molefe Seeletsa

Speaking at a soldier's funeral in the Free State on Sunday, Maphaha described South Africa's borders as "unprotected" and "porous", warning that the nation was vulnerable.

He also accused the government of running a "Mickey Mouse" defence force.

His comments come in the wake of 14 SANDF troops losing their lives in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

In an interview with Newzroom Afrika yesterday, Legoete, who chairs parliament's portfolio committee on defence and military veterans, expressed disappointment that Maphaha's statements came during a period of mourning for fallen soldiers.

He said Maphaha's remarks contradicted the recent assurances from SANDF chief, general Rudzani Maphwanya, regarding the country's security.

"We did ask the chief is the country safe? Are our borders safe?

"The chief guaranteed us as a portfolio committee - only now to realise one of his subordinates is saying something different.