Overview

• President Cyril Ramaphosa said he was unaware of General Rudzani Maphwanya’s trip to Tehran and did not approve the visit.
• Presidential spokesman Vincent Magwenya affirmed that senior military officers may conduct defence cooperation but cannot set or speak on foreign policy.
• Ramaphosa will meet with Maphwanya to review the unsanctioned visit and decide on any disciplinary measures.
• The Ministry of Defence holds exclusive authority over travel approvals for SANDF chiefs, not the Presidency.
• The Democratic Alliance has intensified demands for a court-martial, arguing Maphwanya’s Iran remarks risked undermining diplomatic efforts with Washington.