Pretoria: Presidential spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya, says President Cyril Ramaphosa did not sanction Chief of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) General Rudzani Maphwanya's visit to Iran.
According to South African Government News Agency, at a media briefing on Thursday, Magwenya explained that the SANDF is supported by bilateral and multilateral frameworks that allow it to establish ties with other military forces globally. He emphasized that while the exchange of knowledge and strengthening of professional military cooperation through joint training drills and peacekeeping efforts is encouraged, senior military officers are not authorized to engage in foreign policy matters or represent the country in such capacities.
Magwenya clarified that the President was not involved in approving the visit, as the process of travel approval for the General lies with the Minister. He reiterated that although the President is the appointing authority and Commander-in-Chief, he does not supervise the General's travel.
The spokesperson expressed concern over the visit, particularly in light of heightened geopolitical tensions and conflict in the Middle East, labeling the visit as "ill-advised." Magwenya asserted that the General should have exercised more caution with his comments, which ventured into foreign policy territory reserved for the President and the Department of International Relations and Cooperation.
Magwenya highlighted ongoing efforts to manage diplomatic relations with the United States, focusing on balancing the trade relationship to ensure mutual benefits. He noted that statements from senior government or military officials that might escalate tensions are unhelpful during this delicate diplomatic exercise.