Political analyst Isaac Khambule has questioned the timing of South Africa’s decision to appoint a special envoy to the United States of America. The Presidency made the announcement in a statement earlier that Mcebisi Jonas, who served as Deputy Finance Minister of the country some years ago, had been appointed as a special envoy for South Africa to the U.S.
Khambule says there’s a lot of unresolved issues between South Africa and the U.S.
“As it stands, it is still too early to predict. But there are still political issues that are at the back of these current issues such as that of SA, Israel and the US. Some of them, as we known, relate to SA taking Israel to the ICJ. Of which is something that the US doesn’t really welcome. So, how is Jonas going to negotiate all these co-issues and at the same time being able to represent SA economic issues? But for now, it seems as if it’s the right step. But does SA have the ear of the US at the moment?”
VIDEO | Prof. Isaac Khambule weighs in on the appointment of Mcebisi Jonas
The African National Congress (ANC) has welcomed President Cyril Ramaphosa’s appointment of Jonas, saying it reaffirms South Africa’s strategic intent to deepen bilateral and multilateral relations anchored in mutual respect, shared interests and inclusive development. This comes as the US imposes 10% tariffs on countries around the world including South Africa.
Higher US tariffs have been put on hold for 90 days. The ANC says it is confident that Jonas will, in his new role, promote South Africa’s priorities including trade while ensuring South Africa’s voice remains prominent on issues of peace, equity and sustainability.
The ASPEN Pharmaceutical Group has also welcomed the appointment of Jonas. The ASPEN group’s senior executive, Stavros Nicolaou says Jonas is a good candidate as he brings with him both political and business acumen.
