International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola has confirmed that the new US Ambassador to South Africa, Brent Bozell III, has been summoned to explain his undiplomatic remarks during a public conference.
The diplomat made the comments at a BizNews event in Hermanus, Western Cape, on Tuesday, where he criticised the controversial “Kill the Boer” chant. Bozell said:
“I’m sorry, I don’t care what your courts say. It’s hate speech.”
Bozell highlighted growing tensions between the two countries over unresolved issues, including a re-evaluation of the Expropriation Act, Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) policies, condemnation of the chant, protection of white farmers and rural safety, and a potential shift to a non-aligned foreign policy.
“We put these issues forward to the South African government, and we’ve been waiting for almost a year for a response. The United States is running out of patience,” Bozell said, urging business leaders to speak up on policies affecting economic growth.
Following backlash, Bozell clarified his position on X (formerly Twitter), saying the US government respects the independence of South Africa’s judiciary:
“While my personal view—like that of many South Africans—is that ‘Kill the Boer’ constitutes hate speech, the US government respects the independence and findings of South Africa’s judiciary.”
Lamola criticised Bozell’s remarks as inconsistent with diplomatic etiquette:
“While South Africa welcomes public diplomacy and the strengthening of bilateral ties, such engagements must remain consistent with established etiquette and international protocols. We have called in Ambassador Bozell to explain his undiplomatic remarks.”
The comments also drew criticism from Fikile Mbalula, ANC Secretary-General, who warned that South Africa’s policies will not be dictated by foreign officials, citing the confidence of US companies in the local economy.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) called for Bozell’s immediate expulsion, describing his remarks as disrespectful interference in South Africa’s domestic and foreign policy:
“Bozell has expressed contempt for our country, the President, legislature, and judiciary. His suggestions are out of line, and the US has no say in our laws or who we associate with.”