US envoy Bozell denies calling on Mbeki to mediate SA-US relations
Last week Bozell expressed "disappointment" in President Cyril Ramaphosa's handling of relations, saying Washington has "run out of patience"
US Ambassador Leo Brent Bozell III has refuted allegations that he recommended former President Thabo Mbeki to mediate South Africa's tense diplomatic relations with the United States. Despite praising Mbeki's diplomatic acumen, Bozell clarified that he did not advocate for Mbeki to take on a mediating role. He argued that Mbeki's stature and global diplomatic experience made him the "best person" to resolve the impasse, but stressed that he did not call for him to intervene.
When asked if Mbeki's appointment as a special envoy could resolve the crisis, Bozell dismissed the suggestion, stating that the crisis would already be resolved if Mbeki's involvement were the solution. The controversy stems from US sanctions imposed on South Africa, targeting individuals involved in race-based discrimination and land seizures.
Bozell expressed disappointment in President Cyril Ramaphosa's handling of relations and warned that the new visa restrictions are just the beginning of a series of measures demonstrating America's firm resolve.
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