President Cyril Ramaphosa has defended his decision to appoint Roelf Meyer as South Africa’s ambassador to the United States, emphasizing Meyer’s contributions to the country’s democratic transition and his current membership in the African National Congress (ANC).
Meyer, a veteran politician who played a key role in negotiations that led to the end of apartheid and the formulation of South Africa’s constitution, has faced criticism due to his earlier association with the former National Party. Some opponents have argued that the appointment threatens democratic values, particularly at a time when South Africa’s relations with the United States remain tenuous.
Ramaphosa has dismissed such concerns, stating that Meyer’s past should not overshadow his qualifications and loyalty to the current government. He noted that Meyer is now a member of the ANC and that all ambassadors are expected to represent and uphold South Africa’s policies.
ActionSA spokesperson Lerato Ngobeni expressed her party’s reaction to the appointment, describing it as surprising given South Africa’s history. She acknowledged Meyer’s instrumental role in the transition to democracy and the drafting of the constitution but raised concerns about the broader implications.
Ngobeni stated: “The appointment of Roelf Meyer… even though it may seem like it’s a stabilizing appointment, it’s quite concerning that that’s where we have to resort to in order for us as a nation to stabilize our relationship with the global west, in particular the United States, given where we find ourselves as the Republic of South Africa.”
She highlighted the fragile state of bilateral ties and suggested the choice reflects deeper challenges in sustaining South Africa’s democratic gains. “There are certainly remnants of where we have come from that are starting to rear their ugly heads,” Ngobeni added.
The ActionSA spokesperson argued that the appointment comes at a sensitive moment when South Africa needs to project strength and confidence in its constitutional principles, both on the continent and globally. She stressed the importance of demonstrating that the country is “very sure of itself” and cannot be “played with” in geopolitical matters.
Ngobeni also addressed ongoing international narratives, rejecting claims of a white genocide in South Africa as “nonsensical” and “not even a thing.” She called for the nation to clearly articulate its role as a stabilizing factor on the African continent and a reliable Global South partner, without making unnecessary compromises that fail to take the South African people into confidence.
In the interview, Ngobeni responded to suggestions that a candidate from within the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), familiar with current on-the-ground challenges, might have been preferable for a smoother transition. She emphasized the need for South Africa to showcase a maturing democracy capable of defending its values and principles without external pressures.
The appointment follows a period in which the ambassadorial post in Washington has been vacant for over a year, amid strained diplomatic relations between Pretoria and Washington. Meyer’s selection is viewed by some as an effort to rebuild ties through his established negotiating experience.
Critics, including voices within ActionSA, continue to question whether the move adequately reflects South Africa’s post-apartheid identity and forward-looking foreign policy priorities. Ramaphosa maintains that the appointee’s task is to advance the government’s agenda, regardless of background.
