Retired South African National Defence Force (SANDF) General Maomela Motau has dismissed speculation about a potential coup d’état in South Africa, calling such fears “far-fetched” and asserting that there are no indicators of such a threat.
Motau’s comments come after Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni addressed the nation on national security, assuring citizens that intelligence structures are robust and prepared to counter any domestic or foreign threats, including a coup.
No Signs of a Coup, Says Retired General
Speaking in an interview, Motau, a seasoned military strategist involved in establishing key security structures like the National Security Council, emphasized that coups do not occur without warning signs.
“There are always pre-indicators—they don’t just happen,” he said. “In my assessment of the situation in our country, there are clearly no indicators of any possible coup.”
Motau suggested that recent discussions about a coup may have stemmed from the controversy surrounding Lieutenant General Mzandile Mfanzile, who appeared in a military-style uniform during a public statement. However, Motau clarified that this was likely a misunderstanding, as Mfanzile was wearing a police Special Task Force uniform, not a military one.
South Africa’s Security Architecture Prevents Coups
The retired general pointed to South Africa’s strong security framework as a deterrent against any military takeover.
“The architecture of the security system in South Africa makes it very difficult to spring a coup,” he said. “You have to analyze the military’s structure, morale, and readiness—none of these suggest such a possibility.”
He also dismissed comparisons to recent coups in other African nations, such as Burkina Faso, stating that South Africa’s political and military dynamics are vastly different.
Border Security and Foreign Influence Pose Greater Risks
While downplaying coup fears, Motau expressed concern over porous borders, illegal immigration, and foreign interference as pressing security challenges.
“Our borders are a serious problem,” he said, referencing recent clashes between law enforcement and armed foreigners. “When hospitals are overwhelmed by non-citizens and medicines are smuggled out, it undermines the state’s ability to deliver services.”
He also warned of foreign actors attempting to influence South Africa’s political landscape, citing attempts to establish parties advocating for an Islamic state—a move he said contradicts the country’s constitutional values.
Controversy Over US Deportees Landed in Eswatini
Motau also weighed in on the recent arrival of a flight from the US carrying deportees to Eswatini, a Southern African Development Community (SADC) member. He criticized Eswatini for not consulting South Africa, given their close ties.
“It is unfortunate for Eswatini to independently accept deportees who may pose security risks,” he said. “South Africa should engage Eswatini to prevent such incidents in the future.”
Conclusion: Coup Fears Unfounded, But Vigilance Needed
While Motau reassured South Africans that a coup is unlikely, he urged stronger action on border control and foreign influence to safeguard national stability.
“Our real threats lie in unchecked migration and external pressures—not in military takeovers,” he concluded.
The government has yet to respond to Motau’s remarks, but his insights provide a measured perspective amid heightened political discourse on security risks.