Presidency warns against opposition diplomatic disinformation campaign

The Presidency has urged citizens to disregard Democratic Alliance (DA) claims about international relations, labeling them as misinformation that contradicts official government positions.

Spokesperson Vincent Magwenya condemned the DA recent assertions that US authorities rejected Special Envoy Mcebisi Jonas credentials, calling the narrative a deliberate attempt to undermine President Cyril Ramaphosa administration during sensitive trade negotiations with Washington.

Magwenya clarified that Special Envoys like Jonas operate without formal diplomatic accreditation, unlike appointed ambassadors.

While Jonas has supported trade proposal development through the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) and assisted diplomatic reset efforts with the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), his role complements rather than replaces established diplomatic channels.

The Presidency linked the DA campaign to its February 2025 US visit, accusing the party of prioritising ideological alignment with foreign right-wing groups over national interests.

Officials warned that the opposition tactics risk destabilising South Africa trade-dependent industries, jeopardising hundreds of thousands of jobs tied to global partnerships.

Magwenya highlighted concerning patterns in DA foreign policy stances, including controversial positions on Cuba and Palestinian refugee aid programs.

The statement concluded that the DA latest allegations appear politically motivated, connecting them to internal disputes following Andrew Whitfield removal as Deputy Trade Minister earlier this year.

“This reckless posturing threatens the livelihoods of South African workers and businesses engaged in vital international trade,” Magwenya stated, emphasising that President Ramaphosa maintains direct communication channels with US leadership through recent calls and a May 2025 working visit.