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The Citizen
4 hours ago
- Politics
- The Citizen
SANDF chief Maphwanya submits report on controversial Iran trip
The US has asked South Africa for its policy clarification on Iran following Maphwanya's comments during his trip. The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) says its army chief, General Rudzani Maphwanya, has submitted a report to Minister Angie Motshekga about his recent trip to the Republic of Iran and the glowing statements he made about possible future collaborations between the nations. Maphwananya came under fire for suggesting that South Africa and Iran have common goals. He also criticised Israel for its actions in the ongoing war in Gaza. Iran visit One remark by Maphwanya, relayed by Iranian state media, touched on the intentions of the visit. 'This trip is not only a military one, but has a political message and was carried out at the best possible time to express our heartfelt feelings to the peace-loving nation of Iran,' Maphwanya said. The defence ministry's response stated that the general's sentiments were not its official position. Maphwanya toured Iran's defence research and training facility Dafoos, where officials reportedly spoke about military cooperation with the Middle Eastern nation. ALSO READ: SA stands in 'solidarity' with Iran after devastating explosion [VIDEO] Report In a statement on Wednesday, SANDF spokesperson Siphiwe Dlamini clarified the rationale behind Maphwanya's recent visit to Iran saying he has submitted a report to Minister Angie Motshekga about the trip. 'The official visit was scheduled to take place in 2024, but was postponed to 2025. Authority was granted by the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans for the Chief of the SANDF to honour the invitation. 'It can be confirmed that the Minister and the Chief of the SANDF have spoken upon his return. The department wishes to state further that upon his return from the visit, the Chief of the SANDF gave a report to the Minister, in view of the public interest related to the visit as it has been reported in various media,' Dlamini said. NOW READ: Ramaphosa unaware of 'ill-advised' Iran trip by SANDF chief – Magwenya Bilateral engagements Dlamini said Maphwanya had bilateral engagement with the Iranian officials on matters of 'mutual interest.' 'Upon completion of the engagement, the Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi issued a statement on the discussion. 'However, the Chief of the SANDF has reported that he had not spoken to the media houses in the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Republic of South Africa as he respects the confidentiality of the contents of the discussion between the two Armed Forces,' Dlamini said. Dlamini added that Motshekga 'was satisfied' with Maphwanya's report in their engagement on the visit. 'The Department of Defence will not be commenting further on the matter.' The US has asked SA for its policy clarification on Iran following SANDF Chief Rudzani Maphwanya's comments during his trip. Stellenbosch University's Prof. Abel Esterhuyse says Maphwanya's Iran visit is conveying a political message. Watch: — Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) August 20, 2025 US wants clarification Meanwhile, the US has asked South Africa for its policy clarification on Iran following Maphwanya's comments during his trip. Stellenbosch University's Professor Abel Esterhuyse said Maphwanya's visit to Iran conveyed a political message. 'The important thing here is to understand that the military is an apolitical organization, but the military can never be unpolitical, and this is a textbook example of the military that is not unpolitical. 'Without the controversy about what the chief have said or not have said in Iran, the mere fact that in the South African Defense Force is visiting Iran is convening a political message. It is a political statement. So one has to understand that whatever the military is doing in the name of policy is of a political nature, and the chief of the South African Defense Force visiting Iran is, by implication, a political act,' Esterhuyse said. Deputy Minister Alvin Botes and Deputy Minister Nel recently held a virtual call with United States Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landu. The Deputies had cordial discussions on issues of mutual interest and concern and committed to further engagements.#SAUSARelations August 19, 2025 Dirco meeting The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) said Deputy International Relations Minister Alvin Botes and Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development Andries Nel had a call with US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau on Tuesday evening. 'The Deputies had cordial discussions on issues of mutual interest and concern and committed to further engagements.' It is unclear if Maphwanya's recent utterances were discussed during the discussions. ALSO READ: Ministries distance themselves from SANDF chief's comments in Iran
The Citizen
19-07-2025
- General
- The Citizen
Mandela Day in Alexandra underscores civic duty and clean-up campaign
Defence and Military Veterans Minister Angie Motshekga called Mandela Day: 'A global call to action,' during her address at the Altrec Sports Centre in Alexandra on July 18, urging South Africans to reflect, not only on Mandela's legacy, but on their own lives. 'Mandela day demands that we reflect deeply on how we live, how we lead, and how we serve, not just today but every day,' she said. Citing this year's theme, drawn from a quote by Nelson Mandela, she said: 'It is still in our hands to combat poverty and inequality.' Read more: Mandela Day extravaganza to uplift Alexandra community Motshekga encouraged renewed commitment to justice, service, and opportunity for future generations. The event was hosted by Guardian Angel Wildlife and Marine Trust (GAWMT) in partnership with the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and the South African National Service Institute (SANSI), and combined civic engagement, environmental awareness, and youth development. Parades, military vehicles, and mounted law enforcement units were on display, offering a rare and symbolic presence in Alexandra. Young people, who were given a break from the daily challenges of living in Alexandra, stood in awe as the military showcased their capabilities in a simulated enemy attack. Beyond the displays, the event also introduced the Keep Your Kasi Clean campaign, fostering environmental awareness and care among young people. GAWMT founder Hon Col Raymond Kramer emphasised that environmental care begins locally. 'It all starts on our doorstep, right here. We can start off with a message focusing on Alexandra to make a difference.' Additionally, Kramer spoke about the three-month character-building course, hailing it as an initiative that likely addresses a myriad of societal challenges, and has the potential to address unemployment. Kramer spoke proudly about the young people who have already participated in the programme. 'Just look at these young people who were on the streets before, they could have gone in a different direction, crime, drugs, look at what three months of character building has done to them.' He shared that a three-month character-building course can make huge difference in helping young people get jobs. Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration! At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
17-07-2025
- Politics
- The Citizen
Top 10 stories of the day: ‘Cyril must fall' march
Here's your daily news update for Thursday, 17 July 2025: An easy-to-read selection of our top stories. In the news today, several civil movements have announced that they will commemorate Mandela Day on the streets, demanding the resignation of President Cyril Ramaphosa. Meanwhile, Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Bantu Holomisa, has seemingly shrugged off claims about a coup threat. Furthermore, US Grammy award-winning singer Lauryn Hill has been announced as the headline act for this year's Delicious Festival. Weather tomorrow: 18 July 2025 A yellow level 2 warning has been issued for damaging waves affecting small vessels between Alexander Bay and East London. Very cold conditions and scattered showers are expected in parts of the Eastern Cape. Full weather forecast here. Stay up to date with The Citizen – More News, Your Way. 'Cyril must fall': Organisations march against Ramaphosa to Union Buildings on Mandela Day Several civil movements have announced that they will commemorate Mandela Day on the streets, demanding the resignation of President Cyril Ramaphosa. The march, organised by Defend South Africa in collaboration with the United Civic Movements, is scheduled to start from the Old Putco Depot in Marabastad, Tshwane, at 10am and is destined for the Union Buildings. President Cyril Ramaphosa. Picture: GCIS Several organisations under the United Civic Movements will be joining the march. They will be marching against the rising costs, unemployment, uncontrolled illegal immigration, crime, corruption, Phala Phala scandal and the state of the South African National Defence Force, among other issues. CONTINUE READING: 'Cyril must fall': Organisations march against Ramaphosa to Union Buildings on Mandela Day 'A coup is not discussed on social media': Holomisa says no need to press panic buttons Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Bantu Holomisa, has seemingly shrugged off claims about a coup threat, amid growing conversations surrounding South Africa's national security. Minister in the Presidency responsible for State Security, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, disclosed this week that the security cluster had identified a 'potential risk' of a coup d'état. Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Bantu Holomisa. Picture: Gallo Images / Brenton Geach Speaking to the media at 1 Military Hospital in Pretoria on Thursday, Holomisa stressed that the security of the state remains a key priority. 'If there is anyone who has such plans, I think he or she is advised to stop that because it has been exposed. A coup is not discussed on social media, that's not a coup,' he said. CONTINUE READING: 'A coup is not discussed on social media': Holomisa says no need to press panic buttons Lauryn Hill and sons to headline 12th edition of Delicious Festival Fresh off her run of celebrating the 25th anniversary of her renowned album, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, the US Grammy award-winning singer has been announced as the headline act for this year's Delicious Festival. Her set at the 12th edition of the festival will include her son, YG Marley and Zion Marley, her former lover and bandmate Wyclef Jean. Lauryn Hill will hadline the Delicious Festival this year. Picture:mslaurynhill/Instagram On Thursday afternoon, the festival announced that it would feature the multiple Grammy Award-winning artists alongside South African singer-songwriters Zoë Modiga and Mandisi Dyantyis, and gospel ensemble Joyous Celebration, in its lineup for the music festival. CONTINUE READING: Lauryn Hill and sons to headline 12th edition of Delicious Festival MPs asked to recuse themselves from Mkhwanazi police corruption allegations probe While there is a lack of trust among top leaders of the South African Police Service (Saps), parliamentarians tasked with investigating Lt Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi's claims are also at each other's throats. An explosive joint police, justice and constitutional development committee meeting on Wednesday escalated when a Freedom Front Plus MP suggested that National Coloured Congress leader Fadiel Adams recuse himself from the investigation process, citing a conflict of interest. Chairperson of the portfolio committee on police Ian Cameron. Picture: X / @ParliamentZA The committees have been requested to investigate allegations of corruption and collusion in Saps. Adams opened several cases against crime intelligence generals and Brigadiers late last year. CONTINUE READING: MPs asked to recuse themselves from Mkhwanazi police corruption allegations probe Police shortcomings and employee-staff relations to blame for farm murders — report A parliamentary report into farm murders has made several recommendations on how to deal with violent rural crime. The report was the result of a petition by civil society groups that asked for an investigation into attacks on the farming community and its economic impact. Image for illustrative purposes. Picture: Gallo Images / Frennie Shivambu Police shortcomings were noted as contributors to rural crime, specifically poorly resourced rural policing units. The committee heard how only 40% of police vehicles were properly suited for the terrain they are expected to cover, and that no horseback units were available in some provinces. CONTINUE READING: Police shortcomings and employee-staff relations to blame for farm murders — report Here are five more stories of the day: Yesterday's News recap READ HERE: Top 10 stories of the day: 'Where's the coup proof?' | SA man arrested in US raid | Ackermann named Bulls boss
The Citizen
17-07-2025
- Politics
- The Citizen
‘A coup is not discussed on social media': Holomisa says no need to press panic buttons
The SANDF is now better equipped to respond to potential riots, according to Holomisa. Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Bantu Holomisa, has seemingly shrugged off claims about a coup threat, amid growing conversations surrounding South Africa's national security. Minister in the Presidency responsible for State Security, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, disclosed this week that the security cluster had identified a 'potential risk' of a coup d'état. Ntshavheni also emphasised that the National Security Strategy and National Intelligence Estimates report flagged other risks, including terrorism and violent extremism. Holomisa speaks on coup d'état fears Speaking to the media at 1 Military Hospital in Pretoria on Thursday, Holomisa stressed that the security of the state remains a key priority. 'I don't want to get involved in the reports of what comes from the Cabinet because they are privy to better briefings. 'If there is anyone who has such plans, I think he or she is advised to stop that because it has been exposed. A coup is not discussed on social media, that's not a coup,' he said. The deputy minister assured the public that the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) is fully capable of defending the nation against any serious threat. ALSO READ: Why a military coup d'etat in SA is unlikely He further indicated that the country is not facing any imminent external threats, but the military may be called upon to support the police in managing internal unrest. 'We are not expecting conventional warfare in South Africa. The major threat I foresee is civil disobedience, where we are asked by the police to assist and protect them. 'In that case, we will be ready to assist police, but as far as fighting an outside war with outside players or countries, that is not in the offing.' [B] • Address cybersecurity vulnerabilities at organs of State including in procurement, supply chain management and reliance on foreign-based companies within national security domains. • Investigate activities related to terror financing that are characterised by… — Khumbudzo Ntshavheni (@Khu_Ntshavheni) July 15, 2025 Holomisa added that the army is now better equipped to respond to potential riots since the 2021 July unrest. 'The Minister of State Security did table a report, and they seem to be, at least this time around, ahead of the game. 'Anyone who wants to use violence, I think that the South African security in general, combined, they can deal with that matter. But I don't think that we should start pressing panic buttons.' Security concerns deepen amid Saps allegations Ongoing concerns about national security have also been compounded by serious allegations involving the South African Police Service (Saps). KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi earlier this month accused Police Minister Senzo Mchunu of working with criminal gangs to dismantle a task team investigating politically motivated killings. Mkhwanazi went on to claim that investigators had uncovered a criminal network tied to a drug cartel, implicating politicians, police officers, metro police and members of the judiciary. In response to the allegations, President Cyril Ramaphosa placed Mchunu on leave and appointed Gwede Mantashe as acting police minister. Professor Firoz Cachalia is set to take over the role in August. Ramaphosa also announced the establishment of a judicial commission of inquiry to investigate Mkhwanazi's claims. NOW READ: 'Where's the proof?': Calls for Ntshavheni to answer for coup claims
The Citizen
17-07-2025
- General
- The Citizen
Mandela Day extravaganza to uplift Alexandra community
The Alexandra community will take centre stage on Mandela Day as the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Angie Motshekga, headlines a vibrant Mandela Day commemoration at the Altrec Sports Centre. Hosted in collaboration with the South African National Service Institute (SANSI) and the Guardian Angel Wildlife and Marine Trust (GAWMT), the event promises to honour Nelson Mandela's legacy through youth empowerment, environmental action, and civic pride. The ministry shared that it will be hosted under the theme: It's Still in Our Hands to Combat Poverty and Inequity. A theme that speaks to Alexandra's pressing challenges, including rising poverty, often attributed to limited employment opportunities, and deepening inequality. Also read: Local retailers donate to Bombani shelter ahead of Mandela Day 'The commemoration serves as a tribute to President Nelson Mandela's enduring legacy of service, justice, and unity,' the ministry of defence stated. 'With an emphasis on youth empowerment, environmental action, and civic responsibility.' One of the event's notable highlights is the launch of the Keep Your Kasi Clean initiative, which includes a clean-up of the Jukskei River to promote environmental stewardship. GAWMT founder (Hon) Col Raymond Kramer emphasised the initiative's significance. 'As we honour this special day, we proudly launch the inaugural Keep Your Kasi Clean movement – a call to action for every young South African to begin with a simple yet powerful message: Do not litter. Take pride in your home. Be a patriotic protector of your neighbourhood, your community, and your country.' Also read: Guardian Angel Wildlife and Marine Trust launches Mandela Day youth upliftment drive Kramer added that the campaign marks the start of a new wave of thinking that empowers the youth to take lead by example, and to foster a cultural shift toward environmental respect and social responsibility. The ministry of defence further revealed that the event will also provide Alexandra's youth with insights into career opportunities within the defence sector and related fields, fostering hope in a community grappling with economic challenges. Additionally, there will a military parade and tree-planting activity. 'We look forward to welcoming over 1 500 participants to a vibrant day that blends purpose with play,' Kramer shared. 'Activating young minds through environmental awareness, civic pride, and creative expression.' Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration! Have a story idea? We'd love to hear from you – join our WhatsApp group and share your thoughts! At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
