South Africa appoints Mcebisi Jonas as special envoy to the United States amidst strained relations

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced on Monday the appointment of Mcebisi Jonas, former deputy finance minister, as a special envoy to the United States.  

Ramaphosa’s office issued a statement outlining Jonas’s responsibilities: “Jonas is entrusted with the responsibility to advance South Africa’s diplomatic, trade and bilateral priorities.

He will lead negotiations, foster strategic partnerships and engage with U.S. government officials and private-sector leaders to promote our nation’s interests.”  

The U.S. has reduced financial aid to South Africa, expressing disapproval of the country’s land reform policies and its legal case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, a key U.S. ally.

Furthermore, South Africa’s ambassador to the U.S. was expelled in March. 

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Known for his outspoken stance against corruption during his time in government, he played a prominent role in a judicial inquiry investigating allegations of graft and influence-peddling during former President Jacob Zuma’s tenure.

Jonas testified to the inquiry that he was offered the finance minister position and substantial sums of money by the Gupta brothers, associates of Zuma. Zuma and the Gupta brothers have denied any wrongdoing.