Dirty linen, global stakes: Redi Tlhabi on the media's failure in US–SA coverage
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IOL News
20 minutes ago
- IOL News
Parliament acts on Lt-Gen Mkhwanazi's explosive claims with plans for ad hoc committee
The South African Parliament takes a decisive step to investigate police allegations, calling for a dedicated Ad Hoc Committee to uphold justice and accountability in law enforcement. This comes following explosive claims made by KwaZulu-Natal provincial police commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. Image: Thobile Mathonsi / Independent Newspapers The Portfolio Committee on Police and the Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development took a significant step forward by adopting a report that calls for the establishment of an Ad Hoc Committee. This committee is aimed at investigating serious allegations made against Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkwanazi, the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS). This announcement has stirred anticipation regarding the implications for governance and accountability within South Africa's criminal justice framework. The adopted report articulates the joint committees' stance that an Ad Hoc Committee represents the most effective parliamentary tool for a comprehensive inquiry into these troubling allegations. In contrast to the ongoing oversight functions of standard portfolio committees, which often find themselves balancing multiple priorities, an Ad Hoc Committee would focus specifically on the task at hand, ensuring a streamlined process designed to reach conclusions swiftly and efficiently. Central to the report is a recommendation that the establishment of the Ad Hoc Committee should fall under National Assembly Rule 253, intended for time-bound, task-specific investigations. The committees suggested that, should the National Assembly agree to this recommendation, the inquiry should aim for a resolution within 90 days from its formation, although this timeframe can be extended if required. The gravity of the allegations associated with Lieutenant General Mkwanazi cannot be understated, as they carry significant implications for the rule of law and public trust in state institutions. The joint committees emphasised the necessity of approaching this inquiry with utmost seriousness. The establishment of a focused, multi-party committee is seen as essential to ensuring transparency, fairness, and thoroughness in the process. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Moreover, the committees underscored Parliament's constitutional obligation to oversee state institutions and uphold justice, integrity, and accountability as core principles in their deliberations. Their firm commitment to ensuring a principled handling of the matter highlights an essential aspect of parliamentary responsibility, particularly in matters as sensitive as those concerning law enforcement. As the report now heads to the National Assembly for consideration, observers await how the Assembly will respond and what the eventual committee will look like, including its members and terms of reference. This development represents a crucial moment for South Africa's justice system, with the potential to reinforce accountability at a foundational level. IOL
IOL News
20 minutes ago
- IOL News
Serious Accusations Against South Africa: Alleged Collaboration with Hamas Sparks Diplomatic Storm
US-based lawsuit worth $400 million is being prepared against President Cyril Ramaphosa and other officials. Image: Supplied/Presidency A lawsuit alleges that South Africa, alongside Iran, engaged in active coordination with Hamas that ultimately led to the October violence, which claimed the lives of hostages of at least forty‑seven American citizens. Image: Supplied/Presidency South Africa is facing serious accusations of collaborating with Hamas in the lead-up to the October 7 attacks on Israel. These grave claims have ignited controversy both at home and abroad. Journalist Paula Slier, in a blog post published in the Times of Israel on July 11, 2025, reported that a US-based lawsuit worth $400 million is being prepared against President Cyril Ramaphosa and other officials. The suit alleges that South Africa, alongside Iran, engaged in active coordination with Hamas that ultimately led to the October violence, which claimed the lives of hostages of at least forty‑seven American citizens. The allegations are primarily based on the work of UK consultant Justin Lewis, who claims to have uncovered evidence of diplomatic collusion. Lewis argues that South African officials not only provided rhetorical support but also facilitated Hamas's access to international legal platforms, specifically the International Criminal Court and the International Court of Justice — access that Hamas would not have otherwise enjoyed. Dirco Rejects Allegations as Baseless In an open letter responding to Slier and the Times of Israel, Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) spokesperson Chrispin Phiri expressed 'bemusement' at the publication's decision to elevate what he described as 'extreme, dangerous and unverified assertions.' Phiri criticised the amplification of Lewis's claims, noting that they are unsupported by any credible evidence. He emphasised that South Africa's diplomatic efforts in support of Palestinian rights are rooted in international law, not political alignment with Hamas. According to Phiri, raising such serious allegations without verifying facts not only undermines public trust but also jeopardises the reputation of both South Africa and the global media. Legal Framework: South Africa's Case Against Israel The South African government's approach to the Israel-Palestine conflict has always been anchored in legal rather than ideological grounds. Cape Town lodged a case at the International Court of Justice, alleging that Israel has violated the Genocide Convention and breached multiple UN resolutions and human rights treaties. South Africa contends that Israeli settlement expansion, forced displacements, and disproportionate use of force in Gaza constitute a clear pattern of settler colonialism and ethnic persecution. These claims are framed entirely within the ambit of international humanitarian law. Phiri stressed that South Africa's legal case against Israel is not directed at Judaism or the Jewish people. Nor is it politically motivated. Instead, it relies on documented evidence of rights violations with a historical basis extending back decades. The government's stance is one of accountability under international legal norms. ANC's Longstanding Relationship with the Jewish Community Historically, the ANC has had close ties to South Africa's Jewish community. Many Jewish anti-apartheid activists stood side-by-side with ANC leaders during the liberation struggle. Notable figures such as Helen Suzman and others actively supported the fight against apartheid. In recognition of this shared history, the ANC has consistently acknowledged the contributions of Jewish individuals in advancing democracy in South Africa. The ANC leadership often highlights this legacy to counter claims that South Africa's foreign policy is motivated by anti-Jewish sentiment. On the contrary, the party asserts that its support for Palestine is informed by a deep commitment to human rights and justice — not ethnicity or religion. Ongoing Media Scrutiny and Commitment to Investigative Due Diligence Despite the weight of Dirco's denial, Slier has made clear that she intends to continue her investigative work. She acknowledged that Lewis is not personally filing the lawsuit but serves as an adviser to third parties contemplating legal action. Slier stressed that the situation remains fluid, and she is committed to pursuing credible sources, legal experts, and scholars to determine whether there is any basis to the allegations of prior knowledge or collusion. "I will report on any credible evidence of collaboration, foreknowledge, or financial transactions linked to South African officials," Slier said, "but only after rigorous verification." She also noted that some colleagues questioned the credibility of Lewis, pointing to a lack of legal credentials and an absence of evidence supporting his claims. ANC Denounces Allegations as Meritless Amid the ongoing uproar, the ANC has issued a firm statement dismissing the allegations as meritless and politically motivated. The party said the claims are part of a broader campaign to discredit its principled stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The ANC urged the media and legal representatives to investigate carefully and vet sources before making sensational claims. "The ANC strongly rejects these allegations," the party noted. "They are baseless, reckless and run counter to our long-standing commitment to justice, human rights and international law." Wider Implications for South Africa's Global Role The controversy is raising broader questions about South Africa's role in global diplomacy. Critics argue that if the allegations were true, they would signal a troubling trend: the use of state influence to support militant organisations. Allies warn that such perceptions could hamper South Africa's ability to work with Western partners and international organisations. Supporters counter that South Africa has a right to pursue legal remedies through international justice mechanisms and to speak out against what it considers violations of international law, regardless of political or strategic fallout. They argue that South Africa has always used its UN membership and moral authority to promote peace and human dignity. Looking Ahead At present, there is no legal proceeding underway in any court against South African officials. The alleged lawsuit remains an exploratory effort by unnamed US citizens, reportedly based on unverified evidence. Dirco insists that no formal case has been initiated or filed. Meanwhile, the ANC and Dirco maintain a united front: they reject the allegations and reaffirm South Africa's unwavering commitment to the rule of law. Journalist Slier remains vigilant, promising to continue her investigation. As the country navigates this diplomatic minefield, the integrity of its legal processes, journalistic scrutiny, and media standards will come under intense focus.
The Star
an hour ago
- The Star
Cyril Ramaphosa faces pressure to appoint US ambassador as tariffs loom
While the Presidency announced the appointment of Ambassador Vivianne Fock Tave as the new Seychelles Ambassador to the United Nations in New York on Monday, partners in the Government of National Unity (GNU) are intensifying calls for President Cyril Ramaphosa to appoint an ambassador to the United States as a matter of urgency. This comes days before the implementation of 30% tariffs on South African products exported to the US, imposed by President Donald Trump's administration. South Africa has been without an ambassador to the US since March when Ebrahim Rasool was expelled over comments deemed an attack on the Trump administration. In response, Ramaphosa appointed Mcebisi Jonas as a special envoy. However, the DA revealed that the US government denied Jonas a diplomatic visa in May and informed the Presidency that he would not be recognised as South Africa's official interlocutor. Jonas and Rasool are both seen as Trump's adversaries after they criticised him on two different occasions. In mid-March 2025, the Trump administration expelled Rasool as South Africa's ambassador to the US, following his critical comments about the US government during a webinar. Rasool had characterised the "Make America Great Again" movement as partly a reaction to "a supremacist instinct" and anticipated demographic changes in the US, specifically the projected decline of the white population to minority status. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio publicly denounced Rasool as a "race-baiting politician who hates America" and declared him persona non grata. In 2020, Jonas referred to Trump as "a racist, homophobic, and narcissistic right-winger", which resurfaced following his appointment as Special Envoy to the US. This exclusion of the two officials coincided with escalating tensions between the US and South Africa, fuelled by the US disapproval of South Africa's legal proceedings against Israel at the International Court of Justice and the US freezing aid to South Africa. GOOD Party secretary-general Brett Herron emphasised the need for Ramaphosa to take the nation into his confidence and update citizens on the Washington strategy. "Ramaphosa must update the nation on Washington strategy. President Cyril Ramaphosa owes the nation an update on progress... with the nation's diplomatic relationship with the US," Herron said. Another GNU partner, the IFP, during a media briefing on Monday, also urged Ramaphosa to appoint an ambassador as a priority. IFP national spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa said the party is expecting the president to appoint the ambassador as a matter of urgency, given the diplomatic fallout between the two countries. He further stated that urgency was also necessary because South Africa will hand over the G20 Presidency to the US. Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) spokesperson, Chrispin Phiri, referred questions to the Presidency. However, Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya did not respond to questions on what the status of appointing an a mbassador was. Last week, the Presidency and the DA were engaged in a war of words after the DA revealed that despite being aware of the US rejection of Jonas's credentials, the Presidency continued to present him as the special envoy to North America. "The United States of America denied Mcebisi Jonas a diplomatic visa in May this year. The US government has formally rejected Jonas's credentials...," the DA initially stated. In response, the Presidency warns against treating DA disinformation on international relations as official government policy. "Special Envoys do not present credentials, and Mr Jonas's role, while supportive of DTIC (Department of Trade, Industry and Competition) and DIRCO in trade negotiations and diplomatic relations, does not supersede them. He has been assisting in developing trade proposals and resetting diplomatic ties. "President Ramaphosa has not urgently required Mr Jonas to visit the US due to ongoing processes and recent contact with President Trump. The Presidency is concerned about the DA's persistent campaign against South Africa's national interest, originating from their ideological visit to the US earlier this year. The DA is attempting to use a foreign state to change national policies and is exploiting critical engagements to protest President Ramaphosa's removal of Mr Andrew Whitfield,' Magwenya said. He further said the DA's insults against other nations and international organisations harm South Africa's international relations and could negatively impact businesses and livelihoods dependent on global trade. The impending 30% tariffs on South African exports to the US, expected to take effect next month, pose significant challenges to South Africa's economy. Additionally, South Africa is on the brink of losing its African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) status when it expires this year. AGOA enables economic growth and development in sub-Saharan Africa by providing eligible countries with duty-free access to the US market for thousands of products. [email protected]
