DA Demands South Africa Foreign Policy Review as US Tensions Escalate

The Democratic Alliance (DA) is calling for a fundamental shift in South Africa’s foreign policy, emphasizing economic growth and job creation over ideological alliances. This move comes as diplomatic relations between South Africa and the United States deteriorate, with the recent expulsion of Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool from Washington serving as a flashpoint.

Foreign Policy for Economic Growth

With South Africa’s unemployment rate sitting at 32.9% (Stats SA, Q4 2024) and economic growth stagnating, the DA insists that foreign policy should directly benefit citizens. DA spokesperson for International Relations and Cooperation, Emma Louise Powell, stated:

“Our foreign policy must serve South Africans first. It’s about jobs, trade, and investment—not ideological nostalgia.”

The DA argues that the ANC’s long-standing diplomatic stances, rooted in anti-imperialist solidarity, no longer align with South Africa’s current economic and political realities. The United States is South Africa’s second-largest trading partner, making stable relations crucial for economic stability.

US-South Africa Diplomatic Clash

Tensions between Pretoria and Washington hit a boiling point when US Secretary of State Marco Rubio declared Ebrahim Rasool persona non grata after the ambassador criticized the MAGA movement in an online seminar. Rubio accused Rasool of being a “race-baiting politician who hates America and hates @POTUS.”

The US has already cut financial aid to South Africa over contentious issues, including land reform policies and South Africa’s legal action against Israel at the International Court of Justice (Reuters, 15 March 2025).

President Cyril Ramaphosa described Rasool’s expulsion as “regrettable” but committed to restoring diplomatic ties by engaging both government and business leaders.

DA: Foreign Policy Needs a Multiparty Approach

The DA is also challenging the ANC’s unilateral control over foreign policy, arguing that the Government of National Unity (GNU) should play a greater role in shaping international relations. Powell cited Section 231(1) of the Constitution, which assigns foreign policy decisions to the National Executive, meaning Cabinet consensus is required.

“The ANC cannot dictate South Africa’s foreign policy alone. This must be a multiparty decision that reflects the new reality of coalition governance,” Powell stated.

The DA also wants South African embassies to focus on economic diplomacy, advocating for appointments based on merit rather than political connections.

Can Ramaphosa Balance the Divide?

The DA’s proposal has sparked intense debate. Supporters argue that South Africa must prioritize its economic interests, while critics accuse the DA of aligning too closely with US interests.

For President Ramaphosa, the challenge is clear—how to maintain ties with the US without alienating the ANC’s traditional allies. His decision to send envoys to Washington suggests a willingness to negotiate, but internal divisions within the GNU remain a concern.

What’s Next for South Africa’s Foreign Policy?

South Africa is at a crossroads. The DA’s push for a foreign policy review comes at a time when the country’s global standing and economic interests are on the line. The next steps by the GNU could define South Africa’s international relations for years to come.

For now, the DA is leading the charge, actively engaging with US policymakers and pressing for a foreign policy that prioritizes South African interests. As Powell summed it up:

“We’re here to deliver a foreign policy that works for South Africans—not one that clings to the past.”

Stay updated as the GNU deliberates on South Africa’s foreign policy future.

{Source Central News}

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