Deputy Speaker, the IFP in the strongest possible terms condemns the actions of the striking SANDF members, who embarked on an illegal strike and caused chaos at the Union Buildings yesterday, as it constitutes a serious breach of national security. The IFP believes that the behaviour of the striking soldiers has no place within the democratic South Africa and bears a resemblance to conduct one would find in a banana republic.
The SANDF's unprofessional and unethical behaviour yesterday amounts to a violation of our Constitution. We therefore urge Minister Sisulu to take the strongest possible disciplinary action against these soldiers. While the IFP has sympathy with the plight of the soldiers, violence should never be an option to resolve any dispute.
Furthermore, the IFP calls on the SANDF to return to the negotiating table to resolve the wage dispute as a matter of urgency. We also call on Minister Sisulu to remove all ill-disciplined members from the SANDF so that we can restore the integrity and honour of the force. Thank you. [Applause.]