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Zibi Demands Motshekga’s Dismissal for Defending SANDF Chief Maphwanya
South Africa’s political storm around the military deepened this week when Rise Mzansi leader Songezo Zibi called for Defence Minister Angie Motshekga to be dismissed. His criticism comes after Motshekga defended South African National Defence Force (SANDF) chief General Rudzani Maphwanya, who has been accused of undermining the country’s diplomatic standing with the United States.
The Iran Trip That Sparked Outrage
At the centre of the row is General Maphwanya’s controversial trip to Iran. During the visit, he reportedly urged stronger military ties between South Africa and Tehran. While Pretoria has often walked a delicate line in balancing its international partnerships, the remarks alarmed President Cyril Ramaphosa, who privately expressed concern that such statements could strain relations with Washington.
The timing matters. It was reported that Maphwanya’s trip had been authorised by Motshekga last year, before South Africa’s relations with the US hit their recent low. Yet Zibi argues that, regardless of context, the general’s words were reckless and risked damaging efforts to rebuild trust with a key global partner.
Zibi’s Stinging Criticism
Speaking at a media briefing in Johannesburg, Zibi did not mince his words. He labelled Maphwanya a “rogue” general and accused Motshekga of being “spineless” for defending him.
“That Angie is spineless and does not want to deal with the issue does not mean she is correct. She is wrong. If I were the president, I would also dismiss her as defence minister due to unsuitability and having zero strategic awareness, just like the general,” Zibi told reporters.
He urged President Ramaphosa not to “drag his feet” in holding Maphwanya accountable, warning that the credibility of the SANDF and South Africa’s diplomatic posture was at stake.
Broader Context and Public Reaction
South Africa’s defence establishment has been in the spotlight before, from procurement scandals to debates about the military’s role in politics. But this row cuts directly into foreign policy, with ordinary citizens watching closely. On social media, some South Africans backed Zibi’s bluntness, applauding his willingness to confront what they see as unchecked power in the military. Others questioned whether calling for a minister’s dismissal so publicly was more about scoring political points than national interest.
Analysts note that Ramaphosa now faces a delicate balancing act: disciplining the SANDF chief without appearing weak internationally, while also weighing whether his defence minister can survive the political fallout. For Zibi, the moment underscores his party’s push to present itself as a voice of accountability in a turbulent political landscape.
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Source: EWN
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