SANDF rubbishes claims Maphwanya defying orders from Motshekga to reinstate wrongfully dismissed colonel

JOHANNESBURG - The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has rubbished claims that army chief, Rudzani Maphwanya, continues to defy direct orders from Minister of Defence Angie Motshekga to reinstate a wrongfully dismissed colonel.

This follows a City Press report that Maphwanya refuses to reinstate Colonel Eugene Motati, even after the military ombud ruled he was dismissed over untested sexual harassment allegations in 2019.

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The publication is reporting that Maphwanya has drawn a line in the sand, adding that no ministerial directive will sway him without a binding court order.

SANDF spokesperson Prince Tshabalala denied claims of Maphwanya’ defiance.

"The insinuation that the chief of the SANDF is 'defying' or 'giving the middle finger' to the minister is baseless and irresponsible. General Maphwanya remains fully committed to the constitutional authority of the minister and is engaging the matter with the utmost respect and diligence."

Tshabalala said the SANDF won’t be drawn into discussing internal matters publicly, but said Maphwanya was still consulting with Motshekga on the matter.

"In line with good governance and military protocol, the chief of the SANDF is currently consulting with the minister of defence and military veterans and the ombudsman on the matter."

Maphwanya's conduct has been under close scrutiny of late.

Earlier in August, he faced criticism for comments he made during an official visit to Iran, where he allegedly co-signed South Africa to stronger ties with America's foe.

The Department of International Relations distanced itself from Maphwaya's comments, while Motshekga appeared to defend him.