All complaints raised within the SA National Defence Force will be investigated expeditiously, without fear or favour, the country's first military ombudsman said in Pretoria on Monday.
Lieutenant-General Themba Mathanzima was sworn in amidst pomp and fanfare at the Thaba Tshwane military base.
Defence Minister Lindiwe Sisulu, Public Protector Thuli Madonsela and former president Nelson Mandela's grandson Mandla Mandela were among the dignitaries present.
“The ombud has been tasked to investigate all complaints raised internally by members of the defence force. He will not be investigating matters raised in the media or other platforms,” secretary of defence Sam Gulube said at the beginning of the ceremony.
The introduction of the ombudsman is one of the measures aimed at promoting democratic civil-military relations in the SANDF. – Sapa