The South African presidency has addressed recent questions on special envoy to the US, Mcebisi Jonas, after he missed the meeting between President Cyril Ramaphosa and US President Donald Trump.
This meeting was hosted at the Oval Office on Wednesday in the presence of the delegations accompanying both heads of state and media, among others.
The meeting was meant to discuss various issues. These ranged from trade to the unsubstantiated claims of a white genocide in South Africa, after news surfaced that white farmers were being killed in the country.
Valid US visa
Vincent Magwenya, Ramaphosa’s spokesperson, said Jonas holds a valid US visa. He said Jonas has not been the subject of any official concerns or enquiries related to his professional duties.
“Mr Jonas contributed to preparatory engagements ahead of the meeting between President Ramaphosa and President Donald Trump, including consultations abroad.
“His absence from Washington, at his own request, has no bearing on the President’s official programme,” said Magwenya.
Ramaphosa recently appointed Jonas as his special envoy to the US. This means he is given the duty to promote South Africa’s goals in diplomacy, trade, and partnerships with the US.
To support SA’s interests in the US
During his appointment announcement, Ramaphosa said Jonas would be expected to lead talks. He will also build important relationships, and work with the US government officials and business leaders to support South Africa’s interests.
“As former Deputy Finance Minister of South Africa, Mr Jonas brings extensive governmental experience to his new diplomatic role,” said Ramaphosa.
“This appointment underscores his distinguished career and continued commitment to advancing South Africa’s national and economic interests,” he added.
Sunday World previously reported that outspoken political analyst and published author Prince Mashele believes there could not have been a worse candidate.
He noted that Jonas has publicly condemned Trump. This was a “red flag” that makes him a bad choice and will most likely be shunned. Especially after Ebrahim Rasool was expelled as SA ambassador to Washington for the same sin.
The remarks have drawn attention in light of the recent diplomatic engagements between South Africa and the US.
Compromised choice as a leader
Mashele argues that Jonas is compromised also because of his other hat as chairman of the MTN board. This given the company’s dealings with Iran — one of the US’s enemies.
“The fact that Cyril Ramaphosa chose Mcebisi Jonas as an envoy shows you that Cyril Ramaphosa does not get what is going on. Whoever he is going to appoint as ambassador ultimately will be someone who is not going to repair the relations between the US and South Africa,” said Mashele.
“If that was not where he was going, he would not appoint Mcebisi Jonas. I would have appointed someone who is non-political with no political history. Someone who is neutral. I would have found a retired businessman who has done some business in the US. One who knows the US very well.”
