By Lesedi Sibiya-Diplomatic Insider
The South African government has issued a démarche to the United States’ top diplomat in Pretoria, Leo Brent Bozell III, over his recent public remarks concerning various South African policy positions. The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, summoned the newly appointed U.S. ambassador to explain the comments, which the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) described as “undiplomatic.”
In less than a month of his arrival, Bozel had already made a negative impression with his comments when he spoke at a business conference which was hosted at BizNews in Hermanus, Western Cape, as he took aim particularly at South Africa’s current foreign policies.
One of the remarks Bozel also made comments about the struggle song “Kill the Boer” deeming the song hate speech and dismissed the constitutional ruling on the matter stating that “he does not care”.
On Wednesday, Lamola addressed the media on the current geopolitical climate and he highlighted that DIRCO is aware of the remarks made by Bozell.
“While South Africa welcomes active public diplomacy and the strengthening of bilateral ties, we emphasise that such engagements must remain consistent with established diplomatic etiquette and international protocols,” said Lamola in his media address.
“Mr Bozell expressed his regrets that these comments detracted from any impression that he wanted to work with us constructively” said DIRCO director-general Zane Dangor as he explained that the department held discussions with him over his actions.
“While our policies possess specific features to address historical injustice, they are aligned with international policies, even in the US,” said Lamola.
Lamola even noted that discussions between the South African Police Service and the US embassy were held in order to facilitate discussions regarding safety protocols, budgets and stakeholders.
Lamola also expressed that South Africa continues to condemn violation of international law by Israel and the United States over their tensions with Iran and generally in the West Asian region and urged South Africans in the region to continue having contact with local embassies for safety and support.