Cape Town – Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni has dismissed reports of mounting pressure to expel US Ambassador to South Africa, Reuben Brigety, over his claims that South Africa provided arms to Russia during a conflict.
EWN reported on Wednesday that there was growing pressure for the expulsion of Brigety due to his failure to provide evidence for claims that South Africa provided arms to Russia during an armed conflict.
These allegations have negatively affected the country’s economy and global reputation.
Brigety was publicly rebuked by Minister of International Relations Naledi Pandor, making him the first Western world representative to face such a rebuke.
[WATCH] Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni says President Cyril Ramaphosa has received the Lady R report on the alleged Russian arms cargo. She says the report is meant for the president and not the cabinet. #Newzroom405 pic.twitter.com/5U4LKWU61x
— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) August 10, 2023
On Thursday, Ntshavheni said that diplomatic matters were not resolved through public statements but through proper channels.
She said that President Cyril Ramaphosa had received the Lady R report on the alleged Russian arms cargo.
“The president has received the report. He will go through the report and apply his mind. The report is meant for the president and not for cabinet,” Ntshavheni said.
She added: “We do not deal with diplomatic issues and diplomatic relations with countries through megaphone diplomacy. We follow proper channels and any decision will be communicated through the relevant ministry, which is the department of international relations.”
Ntshavheni was briefing the media on Thursday after Tuesday’s cabinet meeting.
The allegations strained international relations and prompted Ramaphosa to initiate an inquiry chaired by retired judge Phineas Mojapelo.
The report has been submitted to Ramaphosa, who will review it and determine the appropriate action.
The delayed report’s details will be made public based on Ramaphosa’s decision after his review.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
