Although South African National Defence Force (SANDF) Chief General Rudzani Maphwanya’s recent visit to Iran has drawn criticism, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has voiced support for the trip.
Following the visit, the United States (US) asked South Africa for clarification on its policy, with the government insisting the trip was unauthorised.
In response, the EFF slammed the US for its demand, rejecting what it described as the country’s arrogance. The party also accused President Cyril Ramaphosa of behaving cowardly in response.
EFF DEFENDS VISIT TO IRAN
The party maintained that South Africa is a sovereign nation free to pursue trade, economic, diplomatic, and military relations with any country. It argued that enemies of the US are not automatically enemies of South Africa. The party is also added that Iran is a member of BRICS.
“This particular engagement with Iran was planned well before current tensions, dating back to 2024, and cannot be dismissed on the basis of temporary geopolitical disputes between the US and Iran,” the party said.
The EFF further criticised the US for its relations with Israel and Ukraine, accusing the country of hypocrisy. It pointed out that South Africa has never demanded explanations from the US over its own international dealings.
RED BERETS TAKE AIM AT RAMAPHOSA
The South African government was not spared from criticism either. The EFF said it was “equally appalled” by the government’s interference in the military’s work.
In a statement, the party suggested it was clear why Ramaphosa distanced himself from the visit, accusing him of downplaying the engagement with Iran to appease US President Donald Trump.
“This cowardly behaviour is consistent with what he displayed when he was in the Oval Office, unable to assert South Africa’s independence in the face of imperial arrogance. Ramaphosa’s actions expose a leadership that is timid and incapable of defending the dignity of our nation,” the EFF said.
The party added that General Maphwanya should resist any attempts by politicians to control the army.
DO YOU AGREE WITH THE EFF THAT SOUTH AFRICA SHOULD DECIDE ITS INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS?
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