Former Sibanye-Stillwater CEO Neal Froneman has clarified his position on US action against individuals behind South African policies, stating that his previous remarks may have created an unintended impression. The presidency had called his approach unpatriotic and expected him to leave a partnership between business and government. Froneman emphasized that his intention was to protect South Africa's economic interests, investment, and jobs from disputes between governments. He leads a consortium seeking to bring Formula One to the Western Cape and chairs Copper 360 and Business Against Crime South Africa.
Froneman's comments were made during a BizNews interview, where he discussed his effort to bring Formula One back to South Africa. He argued that the private sector should be spared the consequences of the diplomatic dispute between Pretoria and Washington. Froneman suggested targeting individuals who drive policies not supported by the majority of South Africans, citing expropriation without compensation, foreign policy, and South Africa's support for Iran. His remarks were met with criticism from the presidency.
Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya described Froneman's approach as "unpatriotic and destructive," adding that he is a successful businessman but not a diplomat. Magwenya expected Froneman to withdraw his participation in the government and business partnership. However, Froneman defended his commitment to the country, stating that speaking out on difficult issues is part of being a patriot. He emphasized his dedication to addressing inequality, strengthening the rule of law, and promoting economic growth and job creation.
Froneman participates in the crime and corruption work of the business and government partnership, which aims to lift annual economic growth above 3% and create a million jobs by 2030. The partnership's third phase, launched by President Cyril Ramaphosa in August, includes mining, tourism, infrastructure, and agriculture, in addition to earlier work on energy and logistics. Business for South Africa (B4SA) steering committee chair Martin Kingston stated that the organization remains committed to the partnership's third phase.
Relations between South Africa and the US have deteriorated due to disputes over land reform, foreign policy, and President Donald Trump's false claims of white persecution. In September, Washington announced visa restrictions targeting people involved in discriminatory policies, uncompensated land seizures, or incitement to violence against minorities. The South African government rejected Washington's account of its policies, saying they aim to address historical racial injustice.
The international relations and co-operation department emphasized that differences between the countries should be resolved through diplomatic engagement and respect for South Africa's sovereignty. Froneman's clarification comes as a significant development in the ongoing dispute between the South African government and the US. His efforts to bring Formula One to the Western Cape and his role in the business and government partnership remain unaffected.
Froneman retired as Sibanye CEO in September 2025 after leading the group for 12 years. He now focuses on his roles in various organizations, including Copper 360 and Business Against Crime South Africa. His statement highlights the complexities of balancing patriotism with international diplomacy and the challenges of navigating disputes between governments.
Key points
- Neal Froneman clarifies his stance on US action against individuals behind South African policies.
- The presidency had called Froneman's approach unpatriotic and expected him to leave a partnership between business and government.
- Froneman emphasizes his commitment to protecting South Africa's economic interests and promoting economic growth and job creation.
