Lamola Expresses Disappointment Over DA’s US Visit

Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, has expressed disappointment over the Democratic Alliance (DA)’s recent weeklong visit to the United States, claiming that the party does not have the mandate to represent South Africa’s foreign policy.

Lamola made the comments during an interview with IOL News, asserting that foreign policy is the responsibility of the executive branch of government.

The DA’s visit to the US, described as “quiet,” was aimed at bolstering relations between South Africa and the US. The party, which is part of the Government of National Unity (GNU), argued that it plays a critical role in advocating for South Africa’s interests on the international stage.

“We were there to ensure that US leaders receive accurate and fact-based information about South Africa’s domestic issues and the challenges the nation is facing,” said Louise Powell, DA’s Member of Parliament and spokesperson on International Relations and Cooperation.

The visit follows DA leader John Steenhuisen’s calls to the Trump administration to reconsider threats of cutting critical aid funding to South Africa. Steenhuisen refuted claims that the Expropriation Act would lead to arbitrary land seizures by the state. However, President Donald Trump proceeded to cut funding due to concerns over the law’s potential impact on land ownership.

Lamola responded to the DA’s actions by reaffirming that South Africa’s foreign policy remains focused on non-alignment and advancing the country’s national interests. He stressed that the nation’s survival and prosperity are contingent on addressing poverty and ensuring tangible opportunities for the majority of citizens.

“The project of nation-building cannot flourish if the majority of South Africans live in poverty, without land, or the prospect of a better future,” Lamola emphasized.

He added, “Our priorities lie in fighting poverty and deprivation, not in racial segregation or supremacy.”

Lamola pointed to South Africa’s Constitution, which upholds socio-economic rights as a fundamental principle. He explained that it imposes a duty to redress past injustices and improve the quality of life for all South Africans.

“The Bill of Rights calls for the nation to address historical wrongs and ensure the quality of life for every South African,” Lamola added.

In contrast, Powell defended the DA’s visit, emphasizing the party’s commitment to fostering a strong bilateral relationship with the United States, a key trade and investment partner for South Africa.

“The visit was about building communication and trust between our nations, especially given the tensions stemming from unnecessary provocations,” Powell stated. “Rebuilding trust is critical to our continued economic development.”

Powell further reiterated the DA’s stance on South Africa’s foreign policy, calling for a comprehensive reform of the country’s approach and an unwavering commitment to non-alignment.

“The DA remains steadfast in opposing the ANC’s race-based policies and advocates for a merit-based approach to address systemic inequalities,” Powell concluded.

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Sourced: IOL