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International Relations Minister, Maite Nkoana-Mashabane says South African troops were not fleeing from the CAR in the wake of a coup, but a political decision had been made for them to withdraw.
She told journalists in Pretoria the troops were returning because there was no constitutional government in the CAR.
"Last night President Zuma announced our troops will return informed by a political decision and development that happened there. south Africa and South African troops will never serve in any unconstitutional government. We do not have an agreement with whoever is in CAR's leadership at the moment" Nkoana Mashabane said.
Meanwhile the lives of 13 South African soldiers killed in fierce fighting in the Central African Republic last month were celebrated at an emotional memorial service at the Tempe military base in Bloemfontein on Thursday.
Military top brass, Free State Premier, Ace Magashule and provincial safety and security MEC Butana Komphela lit candles in honour of the deceased.
