President Cyril Ramaphosa has moved to clarify his decision to deploy the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) domestically, arguing that the step is a measured response to escalating organised crime and violence.
The announcement, made during this month’s State of the Nation Address, confirmed that soldiers would assist authorities in tackling gang activity, illegal mining operations and criminal networks. While some opposition parties, including the Democratic Alliance and the Economic Freedom Fighters, expressed support, academics and civil society groups questioned the long-term effectiveness of military involvement in civilian policing.
Ramaphosa acknowledged the country’s historical sensitivities regarding the use of troops internally. Under apartheid, the military was frequently deployed to suppress political dissent in townships. He stated that any domestic deployment today must be justified by compelling reasons and conducted within constitutional limits.
limited mandate under police command
According to the president, the SANDF will operate in support of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and remain under police command structures. The deployment will be time-bound and governed by defined rules of engagement.
He outlined potential roles for soldiers, including securing critical infrastructure, providing protection during high-risk operations and assisting in cordon-and-search activities targeting armed groups. The objective, he said, is to allow police officers to concentrate on investigations, arrests and prosecution processes.
The president emphasised that military support forms part of a broader strategy. Anti-gang units and specialised task teams targeting illegal mining are being reinforced, while multidisciplinary groups involving the National Prosecuting Authority are focusing on dismantling the leadership, finances and logistics of criminal networks.
Ramaphosa also highlighted the evolving role of the SANDF beyond traditional defence functions. In recent floods affecting Limpopo and Mpumalanga, troops assisted with evacuations, infrastructure repairs and humanitarian relief. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the military helped enforce disaster regulations, support border control and establish field hospitals.
Despite these expanded responsibilities, the SANDF faces budgetary constraints amid broader fiscal pressures. Ramaphosa said the government intends to address funding gaps as public finances stabilise in order to maintain operational readiness.
Addressing concerns about militarisation, the president stressed that the post-1994 defence force operates under civilian oversight and reflects the country’s democratic values. He added that all deployments are conducted in line with the Constitution and international humanitarian law.
