By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
President Cyril Ramaphosa authorised the deployment of over 500 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) members to KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), which is estimated at a cost of R34 082 720.
The members of the SANDF will assist the SAPS in maintaining law and order in KZN, especially in light of recent violent actions arising from a campaign of misinformation about the Constitutional Court judgment on the Refugee Act.
In July, the Constitutional Court declared certain provisions of the Refugees Act unconstitutional and invalid. The ruling said specific procedural barriers to lodging an asylum claim must be removed.
In late September, Home Affairs issued a directive to implement that ruling. That led to the violence in Durban, which was amplified by online misinformation.
The Refugees Act required asylum seekers to enter South Africa through a designated port of entry to receive an asylum transit visa, which is valid for five days. Within that period, they were required to present themselves at one of the five refugee reception offices and to lodge an application for asylum.
The members of the SANDF will be on standby to support the police for any eventuality that may occur.
Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said the military intervention was necessary following violent incidents linked to a campaign of misinformation.
“The members of the SANDF will assist the Saps in maintaining law and order in KZN, especially in light of recent violent actions arising from a campaign of misinformation about the Constitutional Court judgment on the Refugee Act,” Magwenya said.
Magwenya said the deployment is intended to bolster policing operations and ensure security forces are prepared for any potential escalation of unrest.
The Presidency has formally notified National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza and National Council of Provinces Chairperson Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane of the deployment.
Magwenya said the deployment will remain in force until 30 November 2026.
Meanwhile Ramaphosa has received a report from an independent panel investigating circumstances surrounding the naval Exercise MOSI III “Will of Peace” and the Islamic Republic of Iran Navy’s participation in the operation.