STATEMENT BY MINISTRY OF DEFENCE AND MILITARY VETERANS

ALLEGATIONS OF THREATS OF STRIKE BY SANDF MEMBERS

Date of release 26 August 2010

The Department of Defence has noted media statements alleging that the South African National Defence (SANDF) members might join the Public Service labour strike.

These media reports are not true. The SANDF is continuing to provide support to government in line with the Constitution and the Defence Act.

Section 200 of Chapter 11 of the constitution of the Republic of South Africa, Act 108 of 1996 requires that the Defence force must be structured and managed as a disciplined military force.

Section 18 of Chapter 3 of the Defence Act, Act 42 of 2000 provides clear guidelines with regard to the employment and use of the of the Defence Force. Section 18 (1) the following: In addition to the employment of the Defence Force by the President as contemplated in section 201 (2) of the Constitution, the President or the Minister may authorize the employment of the Defence Force for service inside the Republic or in international waters, in order to-

• Preserve life, health or property in emergency or humanitarian operations
• Ensure the provision of essential services
• Support any department of state, including support for purpose of socio-economic upliftment; and
• Effect national border control
  

Our appeal to the media is that they must report matters of security factually, accurately and responsibly as irresponsible and sensational reporting has the propensity to alarm the public.

The department would like to its appreciation to members of the South African Military Veterans Association (SAMVA) who have stepped forward to assist fellow South Africans in their moment of need.

Ends