Ramaphosa described Meyer as a loyal and patriotic South African with a distinguished track record in both politics and diplomacy…reports Asian Lite news
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has defended the appointment of veteran politician Roelf Meyer as the country’s new ambassador to the United States, expressing confidence in his ability to repair strained diplomatic ties between the two nations.
Meyer replaces Ibrahim Rasool, who was declared persona non grata in March 2025, marking a low point in relations between Pretoria and Washington.
Speaking on the appointment, Ramaphosa described Meyer as a loyal and patriotic South African with a distinguished track record in both politics and diplomacy. He highlighted Meyer’s key role in South Africa’s transition to democracy, where he served as a chief negotiator for the National Party alongside Ramaphosa, helping to steer the country away from apartheid.
The president also pointed to Meyer’s experience as a cabinet minister in the Government of National Unity, as well as his more recent work in international mediation efforts. According to Ramaphosa, Meyer has been involved in conflict resolution initiatives across several countries, further strengthening his diplomatic credentials.
Ramaphosa said Meyer has already been engaging with stakeholders in the United States, including officials on Capitol Hill and within various government departments, even before formally presenting his credentials to the US administration. He expressed optimism that Meyer would soon be officially accredited and take up his role in Washington.
“He is more than well qualified to recalibrate our relationship with the United States and represent South Africa effectively,” Ramaphosa said, adding that the envoy would play a crucial role in advancing the country’s economic and diplomatic interests.
The president acknowledged that significant work remains to rebuild ties with the United States, describing it as a key economic partner and a major global player. He stressed the need for a respectful and constructive approach to restoring relations.
Ramaphosa also addressed criticism from Elon Musk, who has publicly challenged South Africa’s Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment policies, claiming they are discriminatory and hinder his ability to operate in the country.
Responding to the remarks, Ramaphosa indicated that such criticisms would be addressed through appropriate channels, as the government continues to balance transformation policies with economic growth and investment needs.
Meyer’s appointment comes at a sensitive time for South Africa’s foreign policy, with expectations high that his experience and diplomatic skill will help stabilise and strengthen relations with Washington.
Meanwhile, South Africa’s opposition party, the Economic Freedom Fighters, has strongly criticised the appointment of Roelf Meyeras ambassador to the United States, escalating a growing political row over the decision by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
In a statement issued on April 15, the EFF rejected Meyer’s appointment, describing it as “politically tone deaf” and an affront to South Africa’s democratic struggle. The party argued that Meyer’s history as a senior figure in the apartheid era National Party undermines the values of the post apartheid state.
Meyer, who served as a Member of Parliament for the National Party from 1979, held several key positions during apartheid, including Deputy Minister of Law and Order and later Minister of Defence. The EFF said these roles placed him at the centre of a system responsible for enforcing racial oppression, political repression, and widespread human rights violations.
The party further contended that Meyer’s involvement in South Africa’s transition to democracy in the 1990s should not overshadow his earlier role in the apartheid government. It insisted that his past cannot be “sanitised or erased” despite his later contributions to negotiations that helped end white minority rule.
Citing anti apartheid leader Chris Hani, the EFF warned against what it called the “romanticising” of former apartheid figures who later repositioned themselves as democrats. The party argued that such individuals had not fundamentally changed but had adapted to preserve existing power structures.
The timing of the appointment has also drawn criticism, with the EFF noting it comes during a period when South Africa commemorates Hani’s assassination. The party described the decision as deeply offensive, accusing the government of elevating former apartheid officials to prominent international roles.
The EFF also linked the appointment to broader geopolitical considerations, claiming it reflects an attempt by the government to align with Western interests. It accused the administration of prioritising appeasement over the country’s revolutionary values and anti imperialist stance.
Calling for immediate action, the party demanded that Meyer’s appointment be withdrawn and replaced with a representative who better reflects the ideals of South Africa’s liberation struggle.
The controversy adds to mounting scrutiny over Pretoria’s diplomatic direction, as Ramaphosa has defended Meyer’s credentials, citing his role in the democratic transition and extensive experience in mediation and international diplomacy.
