South Africa
By Thabo Mosia
South Africa distances that only the President and DIRCO determine national policy on international relations, following statements made by General Rudzani Maphwanya during his recent visit to Iran that do not represent the country’s official foreign policy stance.
Government Clarifies Position After General’s Remarks Spark Backlash
The South African government moved swiftly on Wednesday, 13 August 2025, to distance itself from comments attributed to South African National Defence Force (SANDF) Chief General Rudzani Maphwanya during his official visit to Iran. In a media statement, the Ministry of Defence and Military Veterans described the general’s remarks as “unfortunate political and policy statements” made in a meeting with Iranian defence leadership. The document stressed that foreign policy and international relations fall solely under the prerogative of the President and the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), not military officials.
General Maphwanya’s visit, which took place earlier in the week, involved discussions on strengthening military and strategic ties between the two nations. According to Iranian state media reports, he praised the historical relations between South Africa and Iran, expressing “disgust” at Israel’s actions in Gaza and advocating for deeper defence cooperation and political alignment. He reportedly highlighted shared anti-colonial and anti-arrogance principles, stating that South Africa occupies a “prioritised” place in Iran’s foreign policy. These comments, including pledges of “common goals” in global affairs, raised eyebrows given South Africa’s official neutral stance in Middle East tensions.
DIRCO echoed the defence ministry’s position, noting that the remarks do not reflect the government’s foreign policy. Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Angie Motshekga has committed to engaging with Maphwanya upon his return to address the matter. This response underscores the need for alignment in official communications, especially amid sensitive international issues like the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
DA Slams Remarks as Reckless, Calls for Accountability
The Democratic Alliance (DA) condemned General Maphwanya’s statements as “reckless grandstanding” and “unsanctioned political diplomacy,” arguing they fall far outside the scope of military-to-military discussions. In a statement, the DA said the comments put South Africa’s fragile relationship with the US at risk and demanded immediate accountability from the SANDF chief. The party highlighted the potential diplomatic fallout, noting that such pronouncements could undermine the country’s balanced approach to global conflicts.
This incident has ignited debate on the boundaries between military engagements and foreign policy, with analysts pointing to the risks of unauthorised statements in a polarised world. South Africa’s non-aligned foreign policy, which includes strong advocacy for Global South interests, has often clashed with Western expectations, but officials maintain that only the President and DIRCO set the tone.
🔴 Central News Special Edition | Issue 112 🔴 Download the Latest Print and E-Edition | Headline: Ngwathe Local Municipality’s R2 Billion Budget Rejected as Unfunded by Free
State Treasury
Download Here:
Direct PDF Link:
https://centralnews.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Central-News-Issue-112.pdf
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube