The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has formally summoned the United States ambassador to South Africa, Leo Brent Bozell III, to explain remarks he made about the controversial struggle song Kill the Boer.
Ambassador Bozell made the comments during a keynote address at an event in Hermanus, where he reportedly described the chant as hate speech. His remarks have since triggered political reactions and drawn the attention of South African authorities.
International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola confirmed during a media briefing on Wednesday that the ambassador had been called in to account for what government views as undiplomatic statements.
Lamola said South Africa supports open diplomatic engagement and public diplomacy aimed at strengthening bilateral relations. However, he stressed that such interactions must remain consistent with established diplomatic norms and international protocols.
According to the minister, Bozell has been engaging with various institutions and historical sites since his arrival in South Africa. These include visits to the Apartheid Museum and the District Six Museum, where discussions have centred on the country’s history and the ongoing need for redress following the legacy of apartheid.
Lamola noted that during these engagements the ambassador acknowledged South Africa’s historical context and the importance of addressing past injustices.
The diplomatic démarche comes amid rising tensions between South Africa and the United States following several recent comments by Bozell on the country’s domestic politics and foreign policy stance.
The situation remains a developing story.
Facebook Comments