Wednesday, 09 April 2025

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) strongly condemns the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) for its recent statement disputing the unlawful deployment of military personnel to monitor a peaceful protest in Matatiele on 8 April 2025. The march, led by concerned citizens demanding justice for the brutal rape of seven-yearold Cwecwe, was a non-violent demonstration for a cause of immense national importance.

It remains deeply disturbing that the state would respond to such a solemn protest by deploying military personnel alongside the South African Police Service (SAPS). This deployment was a clear and deliberate attempt to intimidate the peaceful protesters, of whom were largely learners and children, who were simply demanding justice for a young girl whose horrific ordeal has yet to be addressed by the authorities. The presence of the military was not only unnecessary, but it was also a threatening gesture meant to silence protestors and instil fear among those exercising their constitutional right to protest.

The EFF maintains that the deployment of the SANDF was not only unlawful but politically motivated and grossly inappropriate. The facts are undeniable, the SANDF was present at the protest, and this was widely covered by the media and televised for all to witness. Not only did the military follow the protesters, but they also actively participated in overseeing the march, alongside SAPS, which further compounded the intimidation and suppression of a legitimate cause.

Despite the overwhelming evidence captured by the media, the SANDF has issued false statements denying their involvement in monitoring the protest. This blatant attempt to mislead the public and cover up the truth is a clear example of the government’s disregard for accountability and the rule of law. The EFF refuses to accept such lies and remains steadfast in our demand for transparency and answers from the state.

This government has already failed Cwecwe by not delivering justice, and now, in a cowardly and unjustified act, it has deployed military force against peaceful citizens who dared to raise their voices. Furthermore, the EFF calls on the Speaker of Parliament, Ms. Thoko Didiza, to urgently address this matter.

As outlined in our letter to the Speaker, we seek clarity on whether the President has formally informed Parliament of the SANDF’s deployment in accordance with the Constitution. According to sections 201(2) and 201(3) of the Constitution, the President is the only authority who can authorise the use of the defence force in cooperation with the police. Additionally, such deployment must be communicated to Parliament, outlining the reasons, location, number of personnel, and duration of the operation. The failure of the President to communicate such a deployment to Parliament constitutes a violation of constitutional procedures, which must be exposed and rectified.

The President’s failure to address the deployment of SANDF at a peaceful protest speaks volumes about the state’s disregard for the law. It is unacceptable for the state to continue using force to suppress citizens’ demands for justice. The EFF will not rest until the truth is revealed and the government is held accountable for its unlawful actions. We demand immediate answers and will not allow the government to lie about an event that has been clearly captured by the media and witnessed by the public. The EFF stands firm in its commitment to justice and will not be silenced by intimidation or deceit.

ISSUED BY THE ECONOMIC FREEDOM FIGHTERS

Leigh-Ann Mathys (National Spokesperson) 082 304 7572

Thato Lebyane (Media Enquiries) 078 304 7572