Africa-Press. The South African government has summoned the United States ambassador to Pretoria, Leo Brent Bozell III, over remarks described as “undiplomatic,” signaling a widening rift between the two countries.
Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola said Pretoria had asked the ambassador to clarify his recent statements regarding alleged abuses against the white minority, which sparked widespread controversy. He stressed that “South Africa will not accept any attempt to return society to racial divisions.”
The move comes amid continued pressure from the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump on the government of President Cyril Ramaphosa, based on claims that the white Afrikaner minority is being persecuted.
Last year, Washington imposed 30% tariffs on South African exports before they were later overturned by a court ruling. The United States also granted refugee status to white Afrikaners while suspending the admission of most other refugee categories.
Controversial remarks
Ambassador Bozell, known for his closeness to Trump and his presence in conservative media, drew widespread criticism during his first public appearance before business leaders. He described a chant from the anti-apartheid struggle as “hate speech,” although South African courts had previously ruled that it forms part of the historical context of resistance against white minority rule.
Although he later stated on the platform X that the comment was a “personal opinion,” his remarks on affirmative action policies favoring Black South Africans further escalated the crisis when he compared them to apartheid practices—an analogy strongly rejected by South Africa’s foreign minister.
Broader implications
The current tensions are not isolated. European countries such as France and Belgium have also summoned U.S. ambassadors in recent months over remarks considered a breach of diplomatic norms.
Observers say the appointment of controversial figures as ambassadors reflects a broader U.S. approach of using diplomacy as part of political and ideological battles, potentially leading to further friction with international partners.
While Pretoria insists that its policies aim to address the legacy of apartheid and promote social justice, relations with Washington appear likely to face further strain, particularly if U.S. statements continue to question South Africa’s post-1994 political trajectory.
