Johannesburg: AfricUpdate – News Desk
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has clarified that any statements made by individuals or departments that are not responsible for foreign policy should not be considered the official stance of the South African Government. This is after media reports have surfaced regarding comments made by the Chief of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), General Rudzani Maphwanya, during a visit to Iran. According to these reports, Maphwanya expressed his solidarity with Iran following a meeting with the country’s army Commander in Tehran on Tuesday.
Press TV reported that the Iranian commander emphasised that both sides share common anti-colonial, anti-arrogant, and justice-driven principles. He highlighted that the African nation has been given a “prioritised” position in the Islamic Republic’s foreign policy. The publication reported that Maphwanya relayed greetings from South Africa’s President and Defence Minister.
The General then affirmed that “the Republic of South Africa and the Islamic Republic of Iran share common goals and will always support the oppressed and defenceless people of the world.” However, the department has since distanced itself from these remarks and clarified that the implementation of South Africa’s foreign policy is the responsibility of the Presidency, with support from 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. The remarks attributed to General Maphwanya, therefore, do not represent the government’s official foreign policy stance.” The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, will seek further clarification, according to the department.
