Porous borders pose significant risks to South Africa’s national security and regional stability. Image: SANDF shared via X @SANDF_ZA.
(The Post News)– The Chief of the South African Navy, Vice Admiral Monde Lobese, has openly accused the National Treasury of deliberately weakening the Defence Force, warning that their actions are putting the country’s national security at risk and paving the way for disaster.
In his discussion with the Joint Standing Committee on Defence, Lobese highlighted the Navy’s challenges, including delays in obtaining critical spare parts for its ships and frigates. According to Lobese, the lack of financial support has resulted in porous borders, offering a stark and truthful evaluation of the Navy’s role and challenges.
Lobese believes that Treasury cannot operate independently of the rest of the administration. He claimed that the Commander-in-Chief has made it clear that the SANDF should be funded at 1.7% of GDP. Furthermore, they acknowledge the country’s economic limits, but the mandate must be honored without breach.
The committee is reported to be taking part in the process. Economic Freedom Fighters’ (EFF) MP Carl Niehaus stated that despite the President’s vow to contribute at least 1.5% of GDP to the SANDF, the Finance Minister’s austerity budget has actually resulted in a cut in funding.
Meanwhile, Mzimasi Hala, an African National Congress (ANC) MP, argued that despite raising the same issues time and again, National Treasury fails to take the department seriously. He recommended that the matter be brought to the president’s attention. His suggestion was supported by Democratic Alliance (DA) MP Chris Hattingh, who added that the Commander-in-Chief should be brought before the committee.
Conversely, Lobese pointed out that the lack of financial support directly impacts the Navy’s ability to function. Due to significant delays brought on by this process, their platoons are unable to deploy to sea. He went on to say that they lack the spare parts required for urgent maintenance, which is why ships like the Drakensberg have been out of commission for years—not a lack of will, but rather budgetary restrictions put in place by the National Treasury. He further cautioned that South Africa faces rising global threats and must strengthen its defenses to respond to emerging challenges.
He also explained that South Africa’s current international stance has made it a target for dangerous forces worldwide. Iran was attacked without any provocation, and Libya faced a similar fate soon after being readmitted to the global community. When one of Gaddafi’s sons spoke to CNN at the start of the conflict, he admitted they became complacent and failed to rebuild their military after rejoining the international fold. He questioned whether this is the outcome the National Treasury wants for South Africa by financially strangling the SANDF through their unpatriotic approach.
The committee is set to engage with the National Treasury.
Journalist-Kgopotso@thepostnews.net
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