General Rudzani Maphwanya Submits Report on Iran Visit to Defence Minister, SA Has Mixed Feelings

• General Rudzani Maphwanya recently conducted a trip to the Republic of Iran, but earned criticism for some of his comments
• The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) chief has since submitted a report about the trip to Angie Motshekga
• South Africans shared mixed reactions to Maphwanya's visit to Iran and his utterances while in the country

Briefly News journalist Byron Pillay has dedicated a decade to reporting on the South African political landscape, crime, and social issues. He spent 10 years working for the Northern Natal Courier before transitioning to online journalism.

General Rudzani Maphwanya has submitted his report to Angie Motshekga about his recent trip to the Republic of Iran.

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) chief faced criticism over the visit to the nation and the comments he made while there. Maphwanya came under fire for endorsing the country’s stance on Israel and suggesting that South Africa and Iran had common goals.

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The Minister of Defence and Military Veterans previously defended Maphwanya’s visit, saying he did nothing wrong. The Presidency had a different view on the matter, saying that his statements were ill-advised.

Maphwanya submits report to minister

The SANDF has confirmed that the army chief has submitted his report to Motshekga about his recent trip to Iran. SANDF spokesperson Siphiwe Dlamini also clarified that the trip was initially scheduled for 2024 but was postponed to 2025.

He also confirmed that upon his return, Maphwanya submitted a report to the minister, and that Motshekga “was satisfied” with it.

What did Maphwanya’s visit entail

During his trip, the general toured Iran’s defence research and training facility, where he reportedly spoke about cooperation with the Middle Eastern country. Iranian state media also quote the general about the intentions of his visit.

“This trip is not only a military one, but has a political message and was carried out at the best possible time to express our heartfelt feelings to the peace-loving nation of Iran,” Maphwanya reportedly said.

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However, the SANDF has distanced itself from Maphwanya’s statement, clarifying that it was not its official position.

How did South Africans react to the statement?

Social media users shared mixed reactions to the latest development, with some supporting the general’s visit, while others criticised it.

“PLUS NULLA Tributa said:

“You know who to blame when Trump doubles the tariffs and you can't afford to buy food.”

Sdee Mazibuko stated:

“The guy simply said what Ramaphosa should have told Trump that day. He didn't deviate from SA policy but reemphasised it. The problem is that everyone is worried that he has angered Trump, who will never visit SA, no matter how low we stoop. The army does not operate like Parliament, and I understand he did not need the President's authorisation. This should be handled with care because once there is a feud between politicians and the army, a coup is certain. I have given up on begging Trump.”

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Stuart Harrower noted:

“The ANC is marking their own homework. Again.”

Sam Mphethi asked:

Stab who in the back? He is actually doing us a favour by estranging us further from the bully America.”

Motsok Modisane noted:

“He doesn't go to DRC and retrieve his helicopters and other equipment, but goes all the way to Iran to do what?”

Cathy du Plessis said:

“He should be fired as the DA minister was for doing the same, just to another country.”

Charles Nwaokpo added:

“A good leader doesn't go around inviting troubles to his house but rather minds his business and shields his family.”

Economic Freedom Fighters slams White House over Maphwanya trip

Briefly News reported that the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) challenged the United States' government's take on Maphwanya's trip to Iran.

The White House demanded an explanation for why the South African National Defence Force was in Iran to meet with the country's military leaders.

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South Africans debated the EFF's statements as some supported them and others criticised the party's stance on the matter.

Source: Briefly News