MEDIA STATEMENT BY THE SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL DEFENCE UNION ON SANDF TROOPS DEPLOYED TO THE DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO.

28 August 2013

PRETORIA HQ

The following messages were sent to SANDU by soldiers currently in the DRC, there are concerns that are being raised by our troops contradicting statements by SANDF management and even that of The Commander in chief President Jacob Zuma. The identity of the members are being strictly withheld to protect them from discrimination and prejudice.

The following is a direct statement from the members involved in the DRC.

"Expect the bad news, todays engagement are increasing the number of casualties. We were promised that rooivalks will be deployed now our members are in the frontline. Where are our Gripens and rooivalks? What did SA learn from BoB (CAR)."

"Expect bad news, more casualties. No Gripen or rooivalk as promised before the commencement of the mission. Engagements continue. What is meant by less learnt in Bangui, if we still do the same mistake."

This is the feeling of our troops in DRC.

SANDU and all it's members through out South Africa, would like to wish the injured in the DRC a speedy recovery. To those fighting M23 rebels, Godspeed and good luck, your bravery is an inspiration to us all. 

To the South African public, we ask that you Back our troops, and support them, they need our support. Keep their families in your thoughts.

Statement issued by Pikkie Greeff, SANDU national secretary, August 28 2013

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