Zane Dangor Visits US to Support Embassy Staff and Engage in G20 Talks

Zane Dangor arrived in the United States on Friday, aiming to uplift embassy staff morale following the expulsion of Ebrahim Rasool. His visit also includes a briefing at the United Nations General Assembly on South Africa’s G20 presidency strategies and priorities.

Dangor’s itinerary includes meetings with G20 representatives from the US and Brazil in Washington, where he will participate in a key troika meeting. “After these engagements, he is expected to meet with embassy staff,” said Chrispin Phiri, spokesperson for Minister of Justice and Correctional Services Ronald Lamola.

His visit will also serve an informal purpose: assessing US expectations regarding South Africa’s next ambassador. Sources suggest the appointment will require careful consideration, particularly in navigating political and cultural sensitivities.

Insiders indicate that the ideal candidate should be either a male Afrikaner or a South African of Jewish descent. There are concerns that a Black or non-white ambassador may face challenges securing an audience in the current US political climate.

“If you appoint an African, coloured, or non-white person, they will first have to overcome racial barriers before being heard, given the Trump administration’s stance,” a government source claimed. The source also pointed out that the strong Jewish community in the US could make it difficult for a Muslim appointee.

Several names are being considered for the post. Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development Andries Nel and President Cyril Ramaphosa’s adviser Gehard Koornhof are among the frontrunners. Meanwhile, a radical ANC faction is pushing for Lindiwe Zulu.

A diplomat emphasized that the chosen candidate must be someone capable of advancing South Africa’s national interests while maintaining strong diplomatic networks. “Washington is a key global power. We need someone who can ensure they at least maintain a neutral stance toward South Africa, if not a positive one,” the diplomat said.

There is also speculation about potential candidates outside ANC circles, with businessman and former politician Roelf Meyer being mentioned as a strong contender. The Democratic Alliance (DA) has put forward its former leader Tony Leon and spokesperson on justice and constitutional development, Glynnis Breytenbach.

While discussions continue, sources reveal that Andries Nel was initially a preferred choice before Rasool’s appointment. His background, particularly his familiarity with Afrikaner communities, could help address concerns raised by organizations such as AfriForum and Solidarity.

The ANC’s national working committee is set to deliberate on the matter in an upcoming meeting, with the final decision resting on President Ramaphosa’s approval after consultations within the ruling party.

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Sunday world