The diplomatic tensions between the United States and South Africa have escalated, with US ambassador to South Africa Leo Brent Bozell III responding to international relations and co-operation minister Ronald Lamola's recent remarks. Lamola had said that Bozell should "get out of the kitchen" if he was tired of dialogue and no longer believed in diplomatic engagement. Bozell took to social media to address Lamola's statements, accusing the minister of launching a personal insult against him.
The exchange comes as South Africa has issued its third formal diplomatic protest against Bozell within nine months, citing his "undiplomatic conduct" and public criticism of the South African government. Lamola expressed dismay over Bozzel's behaviour, emphasising that diplomats are meant to maintain open lines of communication. He stressed that it is the job of diplomats to engage in dialogue, and if they are unable to do so, they should leave their positions.
According to Lamola, Bozell has been involved in very undiplomatic conduct, including interfering in the domestic politics of South Africa. He pointed out that this is a fundamental rule of diplomacy that diplomats should not engage in the domestic politics of their host nation. Bozzel's meeting with AfriForum in September and his comments on the "white genocide falsehood" were cited as examples of his undiplomatic conduct.
Bozell responded to Lamola's remarks on social media, stating that the minister's personal insult would further strain bilateral relations. He expressed frustration that his criticisms of the South African government would be met with a diplomatic protest and a lecture on being "undiplomatic". Bozell argued that this approach would only lead to further deterioration in relations between the two countries.
The dispute has also drawn in other parties, including AfriForum CEO Kallie Kriel, who criticised Lamola for failing to prioritise South Africa's national interests. Kriel accused Lamola of deliberately sabotaging ties with the US, which has a significant trade relationship with South Africa. He warned that if the diplomatic efforts fail, the South African government would be to blame for the negative consequences.
Kriel revealed that AfriForum and the Solidarity Movement have submitted proposals to both governments to help resolve the diplomatic dispute. He expressed concern that the ANC leadership would continue to prioritise their own interests while ordinary South Africans would bear the consequences of their irresponsible policies and behaviour.
The diplomatic spat between the US and South Africa continues to escalate, with both sides trading criticisms and accusations. The situation remains tense, with concerns about the impact on trade and diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Key points
- The US and South Africa have a significant trade relationship that benefits South Africa more than any other country.
- South Africa has issued its third formal diplomatic protest against Bozell within nine months.
- The diplomatic dispute has drawn in other parties, including AfriForum and the Solidarity Movement.
