The Parliamentary Defence Committees note with regret the attack on members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) deployed in the Central African Republic (CAR).
This resulted in the death of 13 of our soldiers, with 27 wounded and one missing, as announced by the President and confirmed by the Chief of the SANDF on 25 March 2013. While we mourn the loss of so many innocent lives, we also extend our infinite gratitude for their selfless service and dedication to our country and continent. We also remember all our fallen soldiers who have sacrificed their lives for a cause much greater than themselves.
Our deepest condolences go out to the loved ones of the deceased and we wish the wounded a speedy recovery. We applaud the heroic actions of the SANDF in defence of democratic values, principles of human rights, the sovereignty of the CAR and South African assets. The fight for democracy is a noble cause for which our military forces have laid their lives.
We further support the resourcing of SANDF personnel based in that country and are hopeful of the safe return of the rest of our troops as soon as their mission is accomplished. The Committee wishes to state that it had been informed by the President of the deployment of the forces to CAR.
Our soldiers are often deployed in hostile environments and, despite the inevitable dangers, they continue to volunteer and answer the call of duty wherever and whenever they are required to do so. This demonstrates the character of their service and we must believe that their contribution to peace and security on the continent impacts positively on many lives.
As public representatives, we will continue our efforts to ensure that the well-being of soldiers is protected and that morale remains at a high level.
For media enquiries or interviews with the Chairperson, please contact:
Kanyisa Ndyondya
Tel: 021 403 8041
Cell: 083 624 0585
E-mail: kndyondya@parliament.gov.za
