South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Roelf Meyer as the country’s new ambassador to the United States, in a move aimed at stabilising strained diplomatic relations.
The position had remained vacant since Ebrahim Rasool was expelled last year after criticising Donald Trump, accusing him of promoting “white victimhood”. That incident further damaged ties between the two countries, which have deteriorated since Trump’s return to office.
Ramaphosa’s spokesperson confirmed that Meyer’s appointment takes effect immediately.
Meyer, 78, is a veteran political figure who played a central role in negotiations that ended apartheid in the 1990s. Representing the National Party, he worked closely with Ramaphosa, who was then part of the African National Congress (ANC) led by Nelson Mandela. The two men developed a lasting relationship during that period.
He later served as constitutional affairs minister in the final apartheid-era government and joined the government of national unity formed in 1994. Meyer eventually co-founded the United Democratic Movement and later became a member of the ANC.
His appointment comes at a sensitive time, as tensions between Pretoria and Washington remain high. Trump has repeatedly claimed that white Afrikaners are being persecuted in South Africa—an assertion widely dismissed by the South African government. Ramaphosa has described such claims as “completely false”.
Reactions within South Africa have been divided. Some political figures have praised the decision as strategic, citing Meyer’s experience and negotiation skills. Others, including opposition voices, have criticised the choice, pointing to his age and questioning the political message it sends.
Right-wing Afrikaner groups have also opposed the appointment. Kallie Kriel of AfriForum described Meyer as aligned with the ANC, while the Solidarity Movement expressed concern that the decision could deepen mistrust within Afrikaner communities.
Despite earlier remarks by Meyer himself suggesting he might be too old for such a demanding role, Ramaphosa defended the appointment, saying Meyer is well-suited to represent the country.
Analysts have largely supported the move, arguing that Meyer’s background and diplomatic experience could prove valuable in dealing with a challenging US administration. Some also see the appointment of a white Afrikaner as a direct counter to claims of racial persecution in South Africa.
Experts note that one of the key challenges ahead will be securing acceptance of Meyer’s diplomatic credentials in Washington, a process that could test already fragile relations between the two nations.
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