🇿🇦South AfricaSouthern Africa
SANDF addresses Rand Show mishaps after social media criticism
via The Citizen3 min read
The South African National Defence Force SANDF has responded to public criticism following incidents during its display at the annual Rand Show over the Easter weekend. Videos circulating on social media showed a soldier crashing into a fence during a parachute landing and troops on motorcycles colliding. These events led to numerous negative comments online, with some users questioning the SANDF's capabilities. Brigadier General Selinah Rawlins, SANDF defence corporate communication director, explained that parachute demonstrations are highly dependent on weather conditions like wind speed and direction, which can affect precision. She clarified that these demonstrations occur in controlled environments and do not reflect operational deployments. Regarding the motorcycle incident, Rawlins described it as minor and not indicative of poor coordination or systemic issues within the SANDF, emphasizing that such occurrences are isolated and do not compromise their operational capability. Rawlins stated that the Rand Show demonstrations are public displays designed to showcase diverse skills and do not represent the full scope of SANDF training, discipline, or combat readiness. She highlighted that in real-world operations, SANDF personnel operate under carefully planned conditions with broader landing zones, advanced equipment, and mission-specific strategies. She concluded by affirming that SANDF soldiers undergo rigorous training to defend the nation. Rand Show CEO Adele Hartde
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The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education has launched an independent investigation into allegations that teaching posts within the department are being sold for money and sexual favors. The probe was initiated after a viral social media video surfaced, reportedly showing the wife of the department's head of communications, Muzi Mahlambi, accusing him of involvement in these activities. In the video, she claims female teachers either paid money or exchanged sexual favors to secure employment. Head of Department Nkosinathi Ngcobo ordered the independent investigation, emphasizing that the department views these allegations seriously as they impact public administration integrity and public trust. The department stated the investigation will be fair, credible, and impartial, considering all relevant evidence without fear or prejudice. They urged the public to provide any credible information to the investigating body or law enforcement authorities, committing to act decisively on the findings.
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