EFF’s Bold SANDF Plan

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have unveiled a detailed and ambitious manifesto that spans 260 pages, covering various critical sectors, including land reform, job creation, energy, education, health, mining, science and technology, and defence. Within this extensive document, the EFF outlines a comprehensive plan for the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), emphasizing modernization, collaboration, and enhanced security measures.

Commitment to Sovereignty and Security:

The EFF’s manifesto asserts its dedication to advancing the sovereignty and interests of South Africa while striving for a common security system across the African continent. The party emphasizes that the military is not the enemy; instead, it identifies “white monopoly capital” as the adversary. This perspective underpins their strategic approach to reforming and strengthening the SANDF.

Strategic Military Reforms:

The EFF’s plan includes a significant increase in the defence budget to support the SANDF’s modernization and responsiveness to contemporary security challenges. Key proposals include:

• Modernization Program: Implementing a comprehensive modernization program to ensure the SANDF remains agile and capable of addressing modern security threats.
• Border Security: Mandating the SANDF to protect the country from external threats, including controlling the influx of illegal firearms across borders.
• International Collaboration: Building partnerships with progressive countries like China and Russia to facilitate knowledge transfer, joint ventures, and technological exchanges.
• Recruitment and Training: Reforming the recruitment process to attract highly qualified individuals and permanently hiring all military reservists. The manifesto also highlights the need for intensified training and improved discipline within the ranks.
• Enhanced Remuneration: Improving the salaries and benefits of military personnel to boost morale and retention.

Technological and Cybersecurity Enhancements:

The EFF proposes significant investments in advanced surveillance systems, communication networks, and cybersecurity capabilities. These measures aim to enhance the SANDF’s situational awareness and rapid response capabilities, ensuring the force is well-prepared for any potential threats.

Regional and International Cooperation:

The manifesto underscores the importance of regional cooperation and active participation in peacekeeping missions. The EFF plans to intensify training and capacity-building efforts within the SANDF to prepare for critical peacekeeping operations and contribute to international peace support missions.

Support for the Defence Industry:

The EFF commits to revitalizing South Africa’s defence industry by bailing out key entities like Denel and Armscor. This includes reclaiming intellectual property sold to private companies or foreign nations and ensuring the local manufacture and servicing of military equipment. The party also aims to foster innovation and encourage research and development within the defence sector.

Mandatory Military Training:

A notable proposal in the EFF’s plan is the introduction of compulsory military training for all citizens for six months to a year after completing their matriculation. This initiative is intended to impart life skills and discipline, contributing to a sense of patriotism and national unity.

Combating Crime:

The EFF manifesto also addresses crime fighting, presenting a multifaceted approach that includes:

• Increased Police Force: Hiring an additional 100,000 police officers by 2026 and purchasing 7,000 new police vehicles, with a focus on local manufacturing.
• Enhanced Police Visibility: Increasing police presence in all communities, including informal settlements, townships, and rural areas, with the establishment of 24/7 satellite police stations in underserved wards.
• Rewards and Morale: Implementing bonuses for officers apprehending dangerous criminals, improving salaries, and providing standby allowances to reduce corruption and improve morale.
• Training and Equipment: Introducing a new police training curriculum, upskilling officers to handle gender-based violence, and equipping police with advanced technology like body cameras and vehicle dashboard cameras.
• Community Involvement: Supporting Community Policing Forums and municipal street patrollers with training, uniforms, and resources, while encouraging the formation of crime watch committees in high-crime areas.
• Special Units and Technology: Establishing specialized units to address specific issues like gangsterism and drugs, and employing technology such as CCTV with AI and face recognition to enhance crime intelligence.

The EFF’s comprehensive plan for the SANDF and crime fighting reflects a bold vision for South Africa’s security and defence sectors. By modernizing the military, enhancing regional cooperation, and addressing socio-economic issues underlying crime, the EFF aims to create a safer and more secure nation. This manifesto presents a strategic roadmap for achieving these goals, with a strong emphasis on innovation, collaboration, and community engagement.