South Africans who could be affected by newly announced US visa restrictions may have to wait to learn whether they are among those being targeted.
US Ambassador to South Africa Leo Brent Bozell III has confirmed that Washington will not publicly release the names of the individuals affected by the restrictions.
The US State Department plans to impose visa restrictions on certain South African government officials and civil servants involved in shaping land expropriation laws, as well as individuals accused by Washington of promoting the “Kill the Boer, Kill the Farmer” song.
The move has added to tensions between Pretoria and Washington, with the South African government maintaining that it remains committed to engaging with the United States.
President Cyril Ramaphosa said the government had taken note of the announcement by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio but stressed that South Africa would continue to safeguard its sovereignty while engaging with Washington.
“We are willing to and prepared to continue engaging with the United States,” Ramaphosa said.
Bozell acknowledged the deterioration in relations between the two countries, saying tensions had been building for several years.
The ambassador also discussed his engagement with former President Thabo Mbeki, describing the meeting as fruitful.
Meanwhile, Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau and International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola are expected to seek engagement with their US counterparts on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly.
