Examination of SANDF Chief General Maphwanya’s Remarks During Iran Visit

Pretoria – The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has recognized the reports concerning remarks allegedly made by the Chief of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), General Rudzani Maphwanya.

On Wednesday, 13 August 2025, Democratic Alliance (DA) MP Chris Hattingh, the party’s spokesperson for Defence & Military Veterans, voiced strong disapproval that General Maphwanya purportedly used an official trip to Tehran to partake in political diplomacy beyond his constitutional and professional duties.

DIRCO stressed the necessity of clarifying that the execution of South Africa’s foreign policy rests with the Presidency, supported by the department.

“Any statements made by individuals or departments not responsible for foreign policy should not be misinterpreted as the official position of the South African government,” they stated.

“As a result, the comments attributed to General Maphwanya do not represent the government’s official viewpoint on foreign policy.”

In bringing attention to the issue, the DA cited reports from Iranian state media concerning General Maphwanya’s remarks, which they claim exceeded military discussions.

The DA contended that the general “publicly committed to ‘common goals’ with Iran on global issues, backed Tehran’s political stance on the Gaza conflict, and advocated for closer strategic alignment, including joint projects and student exchanges.”

“This is not the role of a military chief,” asserted the DA, the second-largest party in the Government of National Unity.

“Foreign policy should be managed by the elected Government of National Unity and executed through DIRCO, not by an unelected general acting autonomously on the global scene.”

“This reckless grandstanding occurs at a time when South Africa’s ties with key democratic partners, particularly the United States, are already under considerable strain.”

The DA warned that publicly supporting a sanctioned regime known for regional instability will only heighten South Africa’s diplomatic isolation, invite retaliatory measures, and worsen economic vulnerabilities.

The party indicated it would seek prompt clarifications from the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans as well as the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation regarding:

• Whether the political elements of General Maphwanya’s statements in Tehran received authorization at any governmental level;
• What commitments, if any, were made on behalf of the Republic of South Africa, and
• How the government intends to repair the severe damage inflicted on relationships with democratic allies, whose trade, investment, security, and development partnerships are vital for South Africa’s stability.

“The SANDF’s mission is to lead and manage the defence force, not to act as an unendorsed political envoy,” stated DA MP Chris Hattingh.

“Allowing our highest-ranking military official to make partisan foreign policy declarations is strategically unwise, diplomatically irresponsible, and economically detrimental.”

“South Africa cannot afford to further compromise its international standing due to political improprieties from the military’s leadership.”

In light of these issues, DIRCO stated: “International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola will seek additional clarification.”

Simultaneously, the Ministry of Defence and Military Veterans reiterated that the foreign policy of South Africa is determined solely by the President and DIRCO.

In a statement issued to The Bulrushes, the Ministry of Defence and Military Veterans emphasized that it does not engage in political or policy decisions related to international relations.

“It is unfortunate that political and policy statements were seemingly made during discussions between General Rudzani Maphwanya, Chief of the SANDF, and the Iranian Defence Force Leadership,” noted the statement.

“The Department of Defence reaffirms that only the President and DIRCO are responsible for defining South Africa’s national policy on international relations.

“The Minister of Defence and Military Veterans will address General Maphwanya upon his return.”