Holomisa Promises Military Inquiry Into SANDF Casualties After DRC Mission Ends

South Africa’s Deputy Defence Minister, Bantu Holomisa, has confirmed that a military board of inquiry will be launched to investigate the casualties sustained by the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). However, the probe will only begin once the withdrawal of troops from the region has been completed.

Holomisa made the announcement during a question and answer session in Parliament on Wednesday, responding to a query from Democratic Alliance MP Chris Hattingh about steps being taken to address SANDF fatalities during the SADC mission.

“Following debriefing, the ministry together with the commander of SANDF will provide a direction on the terms of reference for the entire board of inquiry,” said Holomisa.

SADC Mission Drawdown and Debriefing

The move comes after a decision by the Extraordinary Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government to pull troops from South Africa, Tanzania, and Malawi out of the DRC. Holomisa noted that the executive expects a full debriefing on the Southern African Development Community (SADC) mission before finalising the inquiry’s terms.

He also acknowledged the possibility of a judicial commission of inquiry, stating that the ministry would “consider and advise the nation on this matter at the appropriate time,” but stressed that due process under the Defence Act must first be followed.

“It is Parliament that has shown interest in a thorough and transparent investigation, and we are responding to that call,” he added.

Concerns Over Accountability and Transparency

Several Members of Parliament had previously raised concerns over SANDF leadership’s portrayal of the DRC operation as a success, despite the deaths of South African soldiers. When asked if this could result in a conflict of interest in the planned board of inquiry, Holomisa responded that “a single incident cannot define the success or failure” of the entire mission.

“We need a comprehensive report from SADC, the UN, the DRC, and SANDF. Let us not rush to judgement but allow the inquiry to determine the facts,” he said.

Holomisa reiterated that the Parliament could influence or define the terms of a broader judicial commission if it chooses to do so.

“On our side, we will not insist. But the board of inquiry within the Department of Defence as per the Defence Act will continue to take place,” he told MPs.

“That question you are asking, it is this House, which must direct it to the President through a judicial commission of inquiry—no shortcuts.”

Growing Pressure for Independent Oversight

Calls for a commission of inquiry have grown louder in recent weeks, with some MPs insisting that independent oversight is necessary to ensure the public is informed of the true impact and outcome of the SANDF’s deployment to the DRC.

The SANDF’s mission, part of the SADC Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC), aimed to stabilise the conflict-ridden eastern regions of the country. However, mounting casualties and questions about the mission’s effectiveness have placed the operation under national scrutiny.

As Parliament considers its next steps, Holomisa’s commitment to a formal investigation signals that government is, at least in part, responding to concerns over accountability and transparency.

{Source: IOL}

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