While the top structure of the army apparently offers one luxurious social event after another, troops at the ground level have to do without basic amenities. (Archive photo)
While the top structure of the army is said to be hosting one luxurious social event after another, ground-level troops preparing for dangerous operations have to do without basic amenities.
So says Nicholas Gotsell, DA MP and member of the select committee on security and justice. He made an urgent appeal to Angie Motshekga, Minister of Defence, to draw a line through these expenses.
According to Gotsell, the planned army golf day, as well as related social events and parades scheduled for 9 and 10 April at Thaba Tshwane, should be canceled immediately.
“These non-essential activities should not take priority over the urgent needs of South African soldiers. At the very least, these troops should have access to properly maintained barracks and basic services such as hot water,” says Gotsell.
The appeal follows shortly after it was revealed that around R2 million is apparently being spent on an army golf day. In addition, a farewell parade for the outgoing head of the air force was recently presented. According to reports, it cost almost R700 000 and hundreds of guests attended.
Troops live in terrible conditions
Gotsell says the expenses are in stark contrast to the circumstances in which ordinary soldiers find themselves.
Stock photo (Photo: Shutterstock)
He says the situation at the Ikapa army base in Cape Town is of particular concern, where troops are currently preparing to be deployed to the Cape Flats to combat gang violence.
“While the top structure of the army treats flashy parties and parades as a priority, it seems that the dignity of our troops is neglected. Their barracks are dilapidated, damaged and unsafe, with broken infrastructure and no hot water,” he says.
According to him, the Department of Defense cannot continue to spend money on ceremonies and hospitality while soldiers have to live and work in unacceptable conditions.
“An army that cannot properly maintain its own facilities should not spend thousands of rands on functions and golf days.”
Millions under the magnifying glass
Gotsell further referred to the large sums spent on Armed Forces Day in Thohoyandou. The budget was indeed reduced from an initial R370 million to R178 million, but according to him accommodation allowance of up to R70 000 per member was still paid out.
This spending comes amid serious corruption investigations. The Hawks and the Special Investigation Unit (SUE) are currently investigating alleged embezzlement of around R2.5 billion related to the Department of Defense and military veterans.
“Despite this, Minister Motshekga refused to provide a complete breakdown of the planned R823 million which is linked to the deployment of the army in support of the police,” says Gotsell.
He appeals to Motshekga and Lt. Gen. Lawrence Mbatha, chief of the army, to shift the focus to the basic needs of soldiers.
“The money spent on farewell parties and golf days could be much better used to improve our troops’ living conditions. The DA will continue to demand full accountability in parliament for how every cent was spent,” he says.
According to Gotsell, this includes, among other things, the millions spent on golf day, Armed Forces Day and the Air Force Chief’s farewell parade.