Africa-Press – South-Africa. Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said that President Cyril Ramaphosa took Mcebisi Jonas’ ties to MTN into account before appointing him as special envoy to the United States.
Jonas’ current role as chairperson of the telecommunications company has sparked worry that it could escalate tensions with the Trump administration.
This stems from MTN’s investment in a telecommunication company in Iran, Iran Cell, where it holds a 49% stake.
The Trump administration deems Iran an adversary, and the two nations have had strained diplomatic relations for decades.
Mcebisi Jonas’ chairmanship at MTN, a company that generates billions through its Iran Cell investment, is said to be at odds with his new diplomatic appointment, as it could draw strong objections from the Trump administration.
But Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said that there was no reason for the United States to be concerned.
“MTN made an investment in Iran Cell. Mr Jonas does not have ties with Iran, as well as its leadership and political establishments. So, we need to differentiate these issues. That investment MTN made at Iran Cell was no different from investments they’ve made in other parts of the world, where they’ve partnered with local telecommunications providers.”
Jonas’ past criticism of President Donald Trump is another issue that some believe could come back to haunt him.
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