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The GOOD Party was shocked to see footage of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) being deployed to Matatiele in the Eastern Cape during the #JusticeForCwecwe demonstrations. These peaceful protests, which have taken place across the country, aim to raise awareness about the rampant issue of gender-based violence, particularly in light of the tragic case involving the alleged rape of a 7-year-old at her school in the Eastern Cape.

The primary responsibility of the National Defence Force is to address external threats to the nation. The deployment of the SANDF within South Africa’s borders to assist the South African Police Service requires Presidential approval, as well as notification to both the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces.

Such deployments should only occur in exceptional circumstances, during critical moments that justify their use. Previous examples of SANDF deployment within South Africa include responses to the COVID-19 hard lockdown, the July 2021 unrest, and more recently, Operation Prosper aimed at curbing illegal mining activities by "zama zamas" and related criminal activity as well as securing power stations.

For years, defence experts have raised concerns about the SANDF’s severe underfunding and lack of resources. The costs of Operation Prosper, which concluded in March 2025, ran into the millions. It is critical that the government carefully considers the necessity and impact of deploying the SANDF in domestic situations.

South Africans have the right to protest, and there were no indications that this march would be anything but peaceful. The Department of Defence owes the public a clear explanation regarding the legality and necessity of this deployment.

The GOOD Party demands transparency and accountability from those in charge of this decision.

Issued by Brett Herron, GOOD Secretary-General