General Maphwanya faces backlash for controversial Iran visit

South African National Defence Force (SANDF) chief General Rudzani Maphwanya is facing scrutiny following his recent trip to Iran, with questions being raised about his adherence to established foreign policy protocols.

During his visit to Tehran, Iran, General Maphwanya reportedly expressed complete political solidarity with the nation.

His controversial remarks have emerged amidst existing tensions in South Africa's relationships with key democratic allies, particularly the United States.

This situation is further complicated by the US having implemented a 30% tariff on South African goods, citing concerns about unfair trade practices.

Maphwanya's comments have been disavowed by both the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) and the Department of Defence and Military Veterans. They assert that the president, with DIRCO's assistance, is responsible for implementing South Africa's foreign policy.

DIRCO could not confirm what actions, if any, await Maphwanya. 

Its spokesperson, Chrispin Phiri, declined to comment on steps the department would take against those who disregard international protocol.

However, Phiri said on Thursday: “Non-state actors are expressly prohibited from claiming to represent the people of South Africa - a role reserved for elected representatives. The department has maintained that the implementation of South Africa's foreign policy is a presidential function, with DIRCO providing crucial support in this regard. 

“It is crucial to clarify that the implementation of South Africa's foreign policy is a function of the Presidency, supported by DIRCO. Consequently, any statements made by an individual, or a department other than those responsible for foreign policy, should not be misinterpreted as the official position of the South African government.” 

Phiri added that DIRCO Minister Ronald Lamola “would be seeking further clarification on this matter”.

The alleged breach has sparked concerns about the coordination and communication within South Africa's international engagements. 

While details surrounding the reasons for his visit remain unclear, Maphwanya is said to be "against the ropes" for an apparent disregard of protocol, according to a senior government official close to the Department of Defence.

“I don't think they will fire him as yet because it's not clear if he is in Iran at the behest of the president (Cyril Ramaphosa) or the minister (Angie Motshekga)... He will have to explain himself when he comes back. Both ministries will be awaiting his return,” said the source. 

The Department of Defence has also responded to the controversy, stating that matters of South Africa's foreign policy and international relations are the sole prerogative of Ramaphosa and DIRCO.

"The Department of Defence and Military Veterans does not make political or policy decisions on international relations," said Defence Ministry spokesperson Onicca Kwakwa.

Kwakwa added that Motshekga will be engaging with Maphwanya on his return.

The DA has criticised Maphwanya's remarks, saying that they went beyond military-to-military discussions and entered the realm of foreign policy.

DA Defence spokesperson Chris Hattingh said: “This is not the role of a military chief. Foreign policy is the domain of the elected Government of National Unity and must be conducted through the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), not by an unelected general freelancing on the world stage.

“The DA is outraged that the Chief of the SANDF, General Rudzani Maphwanya, used an official visit to Tehran this week to engage in blatant political diplomacy far outside his constitutional and professional mandate.

“This reckless grandstanding comes at a time when South Africa’s relations with key democratic partners, especially the United States, are already under severe strain.” 

The Trump administration has frequently criticised South Africa's close relationship with Iran, alleging that Iran is a primary financier of international terrorism. Tensions between the US and Iran intensified in June following US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, reportedly carried out at Israel's request.

On Tuesday, August 12, in Tehran, Maphwanya held meetings with several high-ranking Iranian military officials, including Major General Aziz Nasirzadeh, Iran's defence minister; Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi, the chief of staff of the Iranian Armed Forces; and General Amir Hatami, the Iranian army commander. 

According to the Tehran Times, Hatami stated that Iran and South Africa share principles of anti-colonialism, anti-arrogance, and justice-seeking. He also emphasised that South Africa holds a "prioritised" position in Iran's foreign policy.

mashudu.sadike@inl.co.za