Overview
- Defence Minister Angie Motshekga disowned Vice Admiral Monde Lobese’s weekend remarks and said she will take appropriate steps against him.
- ANC secretary‑general Fikile Mbalula rebuked Lobese for airing security concerns at a gala event, questioning whether he breached state secrecy and urging discipline.
- In his speech, Lobese warned the navy is underfunded and asked whether budget decision‑makers may be influenced by drug cartels, illegal traders, maritime criminals or human traffickers.
- Defence analysts cite a defence budget at about 0.83% of GDP, roughly R62 billion in real‑terms cuts since the 2015 review, and only about 2,400 sea hours last year versus 8,000 budgeted, with 2,377 hours in the first half of this year.
- Civil society figures backed Lobese’s concerns and urged against suspension, while experts warn weakened sea patrols expose vital trade routes, fisheries and offshore energy to crime.