He has tasked the acting Police Minister, Firoz Cachalia, with deciding where the troops should be deployed
Photo: SANDF twitter
By Bryson Bichwa, AUBA Southern Africa
This move comes as communities complain about the rise in robberies, theft, and illegal mining activities, particularly in the provinces of Gauteng and the Western Cape. Residents say that the presence of soldiers on the streets could restore security and strengthen public confidence in state institutions.
In his State of the Nation Address, Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized that the government will not tolerate crime that disrupts the economy or endangers citizens’ lives. He promised that special operations would target groups involved in illegal mining, commonly known as zama zama.
Malema speaks to media after SONA, in Cape Town
However, the leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), Julius Malema, praised the announcement of deploying the army in Gauteng and the Western Cape to combat illegal miners. He also stated that the move signals a decline in public confidence in the police.
Malema said that when there is a need to bring in the army to assist the police, it is a sign that the security system requires thorough evaluation and meaningful reforms. His remarks come following President Ramaphosa’s 2026 State of the Nation Address, held in Cape Town.
Before the speech began, EFF members were seen singing and demonstrating their unity outside the Parliament hall, signaling the potential for heated debates or even disturbances inside Parliament. However, by the time the speech started, security was under control, with law enforcement having strengthened protection both inside and outside the chamber.
President Cyril Ramaphosa on Thursday, 12 February 2026, during the State of the Nation Address. Picture: Phando Jikelo/Parliament of RSA
Political analysts say that deploying the army on the streets may have short-term positive effects in curbing crime, but a lasting solution requires improvements to the police system, youth employment, and anti-corruption measures.
For now, the eyes of many citizens are on the government, waiting to see whether the operation will deliver visible results in reducing crime and restoring safety in their neighborhoods.
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