Civilian control of SANDF under scrutiny as navy probe unfolds

The South African Navy is under scrutiny after allegations that it ignored a direct instruction from President Cyril Ramaphosa to exclude Iran from a multinational naval exercise held in False Bay.

The controversy centres on a joint exercise involving Russia, China and South Africa, with Iran listed as a participant and several other countries attending as observers. The government said earlier this month it had requested Iran to step aside, citing South Africa’s foreign policy position and broader diplomatic considerations.

President’s order allegedly ignored

Despite this, Iran went ahead with its participation. Defence analyst Kobus Marais told eNCA the move appeared to contradict South Africa’s stated diplomatic stance and raised serious concerns about civilian oversight of the military.

Marais said defence policy and activities were meant to support foreign policy, not undermine it. He pointed to previous remarks by senior defence officials signalling closer military cooperation with Iran, comments that were never formally aligned with government policy.

Probe ordered by defence minister

Defence Minister Angie Motshekga has since confirmed that a probe is underway to determine why the President’s instruction, issued in his capacity as commander-in-chief, was not implemented by the South African National Defence Force.

She said the directive had been clearly communicated and was expected to be carried out.

Questions over command and accountability

Marais questioned attempts to place sole responsibility on the Navy chief, arguing the exercise operated at a higher strategic level involving joint operations leadership.

He also rejected claims that South Africa had no authority because the drill was organised by China, saying South Africa provided the venue and remained part of the organising structure.

Frustration within the military

The analyst suggested the incident may reflect deep frustration within the defence force over chronic underfunding and lack of political priority, rather than simple miscommunication.

However, he warned that if a lawful instruction was deliberately ignored, it set a troubling precedent.

Concern over consequences

Marais said his biggest concern was whether the investigation would lead to real accountability or simply amount to another internal process with no meaningful outcome.

“If a lawful order was given and not followed, that should worry everyone,” he said. “The issue isn’t embarrassment – it’s civilian control of the military.”

The outcome of the investigation is expected to determine whether disciplinary action will follow or whether the matter will again end without consequences.

For more information, listen to Marais using the audio player below: