US double standards and Lamola’s toothless reaction
In recent months, the double standards exhibited by the United States in its dealings with South Africa have become increasingly apparent, revealing a concerning trend of diplomatic impotence from our government. Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, has inadvertently highlighted the toothlessness of South Africa’s diplomatic approach at a time when the US is not only implementing punitive measures against our nation but also publicly humiliating us on the international stage.
The stark realities of this situation include the imposition of hefty tariffs—30% on South African exports— and the chilling freeze of $323.4 million in aid, which encompasses vital programs to combat HIV. In a further insult, the US is accepting white Afrikaner farmers as “refugees,” while simultaneously accusing South Africa of human rights violations. This troubling narrative, promoted by US officials and media, paints South Africa as a nation rife with racial persecution, undermining decades of hard-earned progress in nation-building and reconciliation.
In response to these aggressive stances, Minister Lamola’s call to “address issues diplomatically” rings hollow and naïve in the face of the palpable pressure from Washington. Rather than taking a firm stand, his emphasis on “mutual understanding” fails to reflect the severe realities our country faces. South Africa deserves a leader who will assert its sovereignty and interests, especially when confronted with international bullying.
The humiliating diplomacy of the “petitioner”
This pattern of diplomacy can best be described as the humiliating posture of a “supplicant” state. Instead of vigorously defending South Africa’s sovereignty—such as in discussions surrounding land expropriation laws—Lamola appears more concerned with travelling to the US to clarify positions, which comes off as an apology rather than a robust defense of our national interests. Even after the expulsion of South Africa’s ambassador from the US, Lamola’s reluctance to adopt a more assertive stance and his reliance on formal, diplomatic language come across as inadequate in these trying times.
Conflict with Israel
The conflict with Israel continues to be a matter of serious concern both on the international stage and domestically, as South Africa has filed a case in the International Court of Justice regarding Israel’s actions in Gaza. This is an important step for the protection of the rights of the Palestinian people; however, the Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation, under the leadership of Ronald Lamola, does not make sufficient efforts to mobilize support from other Global South countries, allowing the United States to isolate South Africa. While such moments require a clear and steadfast position, Lamola seems to prefer a “quiet diplomacy” approach, which unfortunately does not yield the desired results.
South Africa deserves a foreign policy that has the character
South Africa deserves a foreign policy that possesses strength of character. South Africans expect their leaders to defend the nation’s interests rather than pleading for goodwill from those who may cause us harm. The minister’s trip to Washington amid sanctions and public humiliation of the country sends the wrong signal to both our adversaries and our allies. It allows for the perception of South African leadership as weak rather than resolute. True foreign policy for South Africa should be one that commands respect and supports not only national interests but also international justice, rather than evoking pity on the world stage.
