Premier Ramathuba postpone visit to support DRC war casualties
The Limpopo government has postponed the planned visit to families of the fallen South African soldiers led by Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba. The soldiers were part of those killed during a fierce battle with the M23 rebels in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo formerly known as Zaire.
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The South African soldiers are in the DRC as part of the SANDF peacekeeping. Limpopo too has lost a number of fighters during last week’s deadly gun battle with the Rwandan alleged backed forces.
In a statement issued on Friday Dr Ramathuba, her Executive Council (EXCO) and Mayors were scheduled to visit various villages in municipalities where the fallen soldiers come from. This includes Botlokwa, Ga-Matlala, Burgersfort-Moroke, Hlaneki, Schoonord, Ga-Sekororo, Khubvi and Mashishimale.

LIMPOPO GOVERNMENT EXPLAIN DECISION TO POSTPONE VISIT LED BY PREMIER DR PHOPHI RAMATHUBA TO DRC WAR CASUALTIES SOLDIERS
But in a follow-up statement on Saturday, the Limpopo provincial government explained the change in decision. It says that due to the ongoing military processes and in respect of protocols the Premier and her Exco will no longer visit the affected families as was initially planned.
“This decision was not made lightly, as the Executive Council understands the importance of providing support and comfort to the families during their time of grief,” said Provincial Government Spokesperson Ndavhe Ramakuela.
“The EXCO remains committed to standing in solidarity with the families and will reschedule the visits at a more appropriate time, once the SANDF processes have been concluded.”