Permanent deployment of SANDF would be expensive, says Ramaphosa

President Cyril Ramaphosa said he won’t be tempted to permanently deploy the army to help fight crime because it will be too expensive.

But he said the current South African National Defence Force (SANDF) deployment to four provinces is already yielding results and communities are pleased with the initiative.

Ramaphosa was responding to questions and concerns from members of Parliament (MPs) about the deployment during a question session before the National Assembly (NA) on Thursday.

The first citizen provided the NA with an update on the deployment that has already started in some provinces, including Gauteng.

He said soldiers may also be used to secure critical infrastructure and to free up the police.

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Ramaphosa said the deployment will take place with other measures like strengthening anti-gang units.

However, he said, making the deployment permanent is not part of the plan.

“It can never be a temptation because it costs a lot of money. They are a temporary intervention to help us to stabiles the situation.”

Ramaphosa said communities have responded well to the deployment.

“It’s already working and our people are pleased. In the past, when soldiers are deployed, it would drive a lot of fear.”

The deployment will be active until March 2027 at a cost of R800 million, but Ramaphosa said they haven’t determined whether an extension will be necessary.