Tensions between the ANC and DA continue to rise within the Government of National Unity. On Tuesday, the Democratic Alliance accused the Presidency of ignoring clear warnings from the US government. According to DA international spokesperson Emma Powell, the United States rejected Mcebisi Jonas as South Africa’s special envoy.
Powell claimed the US repeatedly informed the Presidency that Jonas would not be accepted. Despite these alerts, the Presidency continued to insist Jonas was still leading diplomatic efforts in the US.
She questioned how the government could defend keeping a person in such a critical position while knowing he was not welcome.
DA Demands New Appointment for Diplomatic Role
The DA called for urgent action. Powell said a credible envoy must be appointed immediately to protect South Africa’s relationship with the United States. She argued that the current situation was damaging bilateral ties and trust.
She also criticised the Presidency for allegedly misleading the public. According to her, Jonas lacked formal recognition from the US, yet remained active in the role. The DA warned it would take necessary political steps to resolve the issue.
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Presidency Responds: No Diplomatic Credentials Needed
That same evening, the Presidency hit back at the DA’s statement. It dismissed the allegations as false and misleading, calling the claims a misrepresentation of how diplomacy works.
The Presidency explained that special envoys do not require diplomatic credentials like ambassadors. Jonas, as a special envoy, was not expected to present such credentials in Washington, making the DA’s claims inaccurate.
It stressed that Jonas does not replace official government departments in managing trade and diplomatic relations. These functions are still handled by DIRCO and the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition.
Accusations of Political Agenda Behind DA Claims
The Presidency accused the DA of using international diplomacy for local political gain. It said the DA was trying to embarrass the government and weaken national unity by misrepresenting facts.
Officials believe the DA is targeting Jonas to protest the removal of Andrew Whitfield as Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition. The Presidency linked this criticism to a recent DA visit to the US, which it described as being focused on ideology instead of national interest.
It also warned that the DA’s attitude toward global partners, such as Cuba and Palestine support agencies, damages South Africa’s international image.
Concerns Over Impact on South Africa’s Trade
The Presidency warned that this type of political interference could harm South Africa’s economy. It said strong international relations are vital for trade growth. If the DA’s actions disrupt these ties, many jobs and businesses could be at risk.
The government asked the DA to focus on national interests first, especially in matters that affect trade, investment, and people’s jobs in South Africa.
Summary Table: Key Claims and Clarifications
| Claim | DA’s Position | Presidency’s Response |
|---|---|---|
| Jonas rejected by US | US informed SA he is not welcome | Special envoys do not need credentials |
| Misleading the public | Presidency lied about Jonas’s role | No deception, role remains unchanged |
| Urgent new appointment needed | Jonas cannot represent SA | Jonas still operates legally as envoy |
| Diplomatic crisis with US | Tensions rising | Trade handled by DTIC and DIRCO |
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Hi, I’m Amandeep Singh, a content writer at Ramnath Intercollage. I share updates on jobs, internships, and scholarships across South Africa using official and trusted sources. My aim is to make every post easy to read and helpful for anyone looking to apply.
