Troops deployed to KZN aren't starving, not withdrawing: SANDF
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has dismissed claims that soldiers deployed to KwaZulu-Natal don't have enough to eat because of a lack of meal allowances.
The army says it's also concerned about comments that troops are threatening to withdraw over the food shortage.
"It is not true or correct that our soldiers are starving and that are considering withdrawing from the operation," SANDF spokesperson Mafi Mgobozi says.
READ: Govt keeping troops on the ground longer to avoid criticism: ISS
The soldiers have been stationed in KZN since last month's social unrest.
Following threats of more shutdown protests, they remain on standby.
Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema drew attention to their apparent food-related grievances in a tweet on Sunday.
READ: Lack of loo paper, sanitiser hit soldiers in KZN
Mgobozi's acknowledged they are working through some challenges concerning ration packs and meal payment allowances.
"These challenges are being addressed. There are processes in place to prioritise and to address challenges as and when they prevail. This is an ongoing process for the duration of the operation."
