DA Sparks Controversy Over Military Fly-Over Ahead Of SONA
- The Democratic Alliance (DA) is urging the cancellation of the traditional fly-over during the State of the Nation Address (SONA).
- The party insists it's inappropriate to celebrate military might when South African soldiers are losing their lives in the DRC.
- Public backlash has been swift, with many arguing the fly-over is a cherished tradition.
Listen, here's the deal: The Democratic Alliance (DA) is making some noise ahead of this year's State of the Nation Address (SONA). They're asking the Speaker of Parliament to rethink the grand military parade that usually kicks off the event. It's not just about scaling back the spectacle; it's about showing sensitivity to the current challenges facing our troops abroad.
SONA 2025 is set to take place at the Cape Town City Hall on February 6, and it's shaping up to be a big deal. Last year alone, the event cost taxpayers a whopping R6.5 million. But this year, the DA is urging a more subdued approach, especially given the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
Why the DA Wants to Ground the Fly-Over
With SONA just around the corner, the DA's Chris Hattingh has spoken out, specifically requesting that the South African Air Force fly-over be canceled. Hattingh, the party's spokesperson on Defence and Military Veterans, argues that it's tone-deaf to showcase military might when our soldiers are in the trenches overseas. Fourteen South African soldiers have lost their lives in the DRC, battling M23 rebels. How does it feel to honor our troops with a fly-over when they're fighting—and dying—for our nation?
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“The DA strongly believes that celebrating military capability while our troops are suffering abroad is not only insensitive but also a disservice to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for this country,” Hattingh emphasized.
This year's SONA will be under a microscope, especially with former uMkhonto weSizwe leader Jacob Zuma confirmed to attend. It's a moment where the nation's leaders will be in the spotlight, and the DA wants to ensure the tone reflects the gravity of the times.
South Africans Weigh In on the DA's Proposal
Not everyone is on board with the DA's suggestion. Social media has been buzzing with reactions, and many users are defending the tradition of the military fly-over. It's a moment of national pride, they argue, and shouldn't be tampered with, even in tough times.
Ingrid Royston chimed in with:
“Oh please. It's their annual march. It's wonderful to see👏🏼.”
Jeff Behr added a touch of sarcasm:
“Well, if Ramaphosa keeps sending troops to the DRC, there won't be enough for SONA anyway.”
Courtney Baird questioned the DA's influence:
“Does the DA really think those in charge are going to listen to them?”
Eric Ntombela offered a simple take:
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“It makes politicians feel important.”
Richard Northmore was blunt:
“It's all that they are good at. And even then, one has to be very forgiving.”
Brian Halsall couldn't resist a jab at the DA:
“DA, you know Ramaphosa won't listen to you. He's in charge and when he tells you to jump, you ask him how high.”
Concerns Over Sponsored Alcohol at SONA
While the fly-over debate rages on, another issue has surfaced: the potential for sponsored alcohol at SONA. An anonymous donor reportedly offered to foot the bill for food and drinks for Parliamentarians during the event. This has sparked concerns among political parties, who worry that lawmakers might get a little too tipsy before the big speech.
The public reaction has been swift, with many South Africans expressing disbelief that Parliamentarians can't afford to buy their own meals. It seems the nation is divided not only on military displays but also on the finer details of political etiquette. As the clock ticks down to SONA, all eyes will be on how these issues play out—and whether anyone will take the DA's advice.
