Minister of the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, on Thursday clarified South Africa's position on the ambassadorial appointment process, addressing the matter concerning the United States (US) Ambassador to South Africa.
During a Cabinet briefing held in Pretoria on Thursday, Ntshavheni emphasised that, as a sovereign state, the United States had the right to choose its ambassador without the need to consulte with South Africa.
She said that South Africa’s role only comes into play once the ambassador’s credentials are presented.
At this point, South Africa is responsible for reviewing the credentials and deciding whether to accept or reject them. This process does not involve a Cabinet discussion, as it falls under the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), she said.
''Ministers and ambassadors get security clearance.''
She explained that each country is responsible for clearing its own ambassadors when they are deployed to another nation.
This clearance process ensures that the credentials of foreign diplomats are accepted, and members of Parliament review appointments for specific committees.
However, she pointed out that ministers, such as Gayton McKenzie, are not subject to the same security clearance procedures.
This statement follows the expulsion of former US ambassador Ebrahim Rasool, who was declared persona non grata by the US President Donald Trump administration.
IOL previously reported that Trump officially announced Leo Brent Bozell III as the new US Ambassador to South Africa.
Bozell, who succeeds Reuben Brigety who resigned on January 10 — was appointed as part of a diplomatic transition.
Trump shared the news on X (formerly Twitter), stating:
“I am pleased to announce that Brent Bozell will be our next United States Ambassador to South Africa. Brent is the Founder of the Media Research Center, which has exposed Fake News hypocrites for many years. Brent brings fearless tenacity, extraordinary experience, and vast knowledge to a nation that desperately needs it. Congratulations, Brent!”
Bozell’s appointment marks a significant shift in diplomatic leadership between the two countries.
A well-known conservative media commentator, Bozell was nominated for the position by the Trump administration.
Additionally, Ntshavheni addressed the topic of McKenzie, who has been part of conversations regarding security clearance processes.
Ntshavheni specifically addressed the situation of McKenzie, who, despite his past as a convicted criminal, has demonstrated significant rehabilitation.
She stated, "Minister McKenzie is not only a convicted criminal; he has been rehabilitated. He has contributed greatly to South Africa's development, not only as a member of the Cabinet but as a citizen even before his appointment."
McKenzie gained national recognition for his work exposing corruption in South Africa's prison system, particularly his efforts to uncover the actions of corrupt prison warders.
"He informed all South Africans when he fought corruption at the prison system. He exposed corruption by prison warders, and this was a major turning point," she said.
Ntshavheni emphasised the importance of recognising individuals' positive contributions and rehabilitation efforts.
"When we want to condemn a person, we must also remember their good deeds. He has served his time and demonstrated his commitment to this country."