By Thabo Mosia
John Steenhuisen, leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA) and Minister of Agriculture in President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Government of National Unity (GNU), has distanced his party from President Ramaphosa’s recent comments during a bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Ramaphosa, during the talks on the eve of the BRICS summit in Kazan, referred to Russia as a “valued ally and friend.” Steenhuisen swiftly responded, stating that the DA unequivocally rejects such characterisation of Russia and its leadership.
In his statement released on 23 October 2024, Steenhuisen emphasised that the DA does not consider Russia, under the leadership of Vladimir Putin, as an ally of South Africa. He further condemned the description of an authoritarian regime, embroiled in an “imperialist war of aggression” against Ukraine, as a partner to the country. Steenhuisen also voiced concerns about the economic and diplomatic consequences of Ramaphosa’s remarks, warning that such statements could jeopardise South Africa’s burgeoning growth and job creation initiatives.
The DA leader underscored the need for consensus within the GNU when making such international declarations. He stressed that comments on behalf of the GNU must be thoroughly debated among coalition partners to ensure that they reflect the unified stance of the South African government.
Ramaphosa’s meeting with Putin took place as preparations for the 2024 BRICS summit were underway. South Africa, which has faced scrutiny for its neutral stance in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, has maintained that its historical ties with Russia, particularly during the anti-apartheid struggle, are significant. At the meeting, Ramaphosa reiterated that Russia played an essential role in South Africa’s fight against apartheid, describing the country as a “friend” and ally.
Vladimir Putin, for his part, praised the partnership between Russia and South Africa, highlighting the importance of cooperation within the BRICS framework. He noted that Moscow values its strategic partnership with South Africa, which is based on “equality and mutual respect.”
However, Steenhuisen’s strong rebuttal reflects broader tensions within the GNU over South Africa’s diplomatic stance toward Russia. While Ramaphosa has championed a non-aligned position on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the DA has consistently criticised this approach. Steenhuisen, in particular, has called for a more assertive stance, urging the government to distance itself from Russia due to its ongoing military actions in Ukraine.
The DA leader also reiterated the potential risks to South Africa’s international relations and trade, particularly with Western countries, if the government continues to align itself with authoritarian regimes like Russia. Steenhuisen’s remarks underscore the DA’s commitment to maintaining strong diplomatic ties with Western allies and multilateral institutions, which have been critical of Russia’s actions on the global stage.
The fallout from Ramaphosa’s comments comes as South Africa prepares to host the 2024 BRICS summit in Kazan. The summit, which brings together emerging economies including Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, is seen as a crucial platform for discussing global economic and political challenges. However, South Africa’s relations with Russia, particularly in light of the Ukraine war, have sparked international concerns, with some questioning the country’s commitment to upholding international law and human rights.
South Africa’s historical ties with Russia, dating back to the Soviet Union’s support for the African National Congress (ANC) during the apartheid era, continue to influence its foreign policy. Despite calls from various international actors, including the DA, to take a firmer stance against Russia’s actions, Ramaphosa’s government has refrained from imposing sanctions or condemning Moscow outright.
In 2023, South Africa faced a diplomatic dilemma when Putin was invited to the BRICS summit in Johannesburg. Due to an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant for his arrest, Putin chose to attend the summit virtually, avoiding the possibility of being detained in South Africa. This incident highlighted the complexities of South Africa’s position on the global stage, particularly regarding its obligations to international law versus its historical alliances.
Steenhuisen’s criticism of Ramaphosa’s remarks reflects a broader debate within South African politics about the country’s role in global affairs. As the leader of the DA, Steenhuisen has been vocal about the need for South Africa to uphold democratic values and align itself with Western democracies, especially in light of growing geopolitical tensions.
The DA’s stance has been further reinforced by calls for South Africa to adopt a more pragmatic foreign policy approach, one that prioritises economic growth and international trade over ideological allegiances. Steenhuisen pointed out that with the economy showing signs of improvement after years of stagnation, it is vital that the government focuses on fostering positive relations with key trade partners rather than alienating them through controversial diplomatic statements.
Steenhuisen concluded by reiterating the DA’s commitment to ensuring that South Africa remains a respected member of the international community, one that upholds the principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. He called on Ramaphosa to retract his comments and engage in dialogue with GNU partners to ensure that future statements reflect a unified and considered position.
As the BRICS summit approaches, the tension between the DA and the ANC over South Africa’s foreign policy is likely to intensify. With growing domestic and international scrutiny, the stakes for Ramaphosa’s government could not be higher. South Africa’s diplomatic balancing act between its historical ties to Russia and its obligations to international law will undoubtedly continue to shape the country’s foreign policy in the months to come.
Steenhuisen’s statement also echoes broader concerns within the opposition and civil society about the direction of South Africa’s foreign relations, particularly in light of the country’s complex economic and political landscape. As the GNU navigates these challenges, it remains to be seen how South Africa’s foreign policy will evolve under the leadership of Ramaphosa and Steenhuisen.
For now, Steenhuisen’s criticism serves as a stark reminder of the divisions within South Africa’s government over its approach to Russia and the broader implications for the country’s role on the global stage.
Download Here:
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
_______________________
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube
#centralnewsza #freestate