South African soldiers serving in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are protesting against what they perceive as insufficient deployment incentives, claiming their counterparts in other countries receive significantly better compensation.
The South African National Defence Force ( SANDF ) soldiers deployed in the Democratic Republic of Congo ( DRC ) have voiced their discontent regarding the deployment incentives offered by the South African government. These soldiers, speaking to IOL anonymously following the recent conflict between Rwanda and South Africa which resulted in the deaths of 13 SANDF peacekeeping troops in Goma , expressed feelings of demoralization.
They argue that their counterparts from other countries deployed on similar missions receive significantly more favorable incentives. While all soldiers on international missions are paid in US dollars, the SANDF soldiers claim they receive the same amount even when not deployed. The main difference, they say, lies in the return compensation. Soldiers deployed to other countries like Mali, Uruguay, Ukraine, and others, return home with substantial sums, often close to R1.5 million, allowing them to secure early retirement. In contrast, SANDF soldiers receive around R350,000 upon their return, a sum that is taxed.Furthermore, a female SANDF member alleged that other troop deployments receive tax-free salaries, leaving those serving in the DRC with a paltry amount after taxes. She also highlighted the ongoing issue of uncompensated injuries sustained by troops during a peacekeeping mission in Mozambique three years ago. Despite these allegations, the SANDF maintained that payments and compensation to its soldiers are processed directly through their PERSOL system. They reassured that the troops stationed in Goma would continue their mission. Meanwhile, the DRC President, Félix Tshisekedi, has pledged to reclaim government authority in the east. Rwanda-backed forces have seized control of Goma and are reportedly advancing southwards. President Tshisekedi has promised a'vigorous and coordinated response' against what he termed 'terrorists,' which is currently underway. He emphasized the DRC's resilience, stating 'Be sure of one thing: the DRC will not let itself be humiliated or crushed. We will fight and we will triumph.
SANDF DRC Deployment Incentives Compensation Rwanda Goma Felix Tshisekedi Peacekeeping Mission Congolese Conflict
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