Johannesburg, September 16 (Daily Kiran) : South Africa has firmly rejected the United States’ recent visa restrictions announced on September 16, 2026. The government argues that this move misrepresents its domestic policies and undermines efforts to resolve differences through diplomatic dialogue.
Ronald Lamola, South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, stated that the US’s declaration aligns with the misinterpretations of marginalized groups in South Africa, who inaccurately claim to represent “minorities” and Afrikaners.
While acknowledging that Washington may hold differing views on South African policies, Lamola expressed hope that Pretoria’s sovereignty, democracy, and constitution will be respected.
According to reports from Xinhua News Agency, Lamola emphasized the country’s commitment to building a more equitable and inclusive society through its constitutional institutions, democratic processes, and rule of law.
He pointed out that ongoing bilateral discussions demonstrate the importance both nations place on finding lasting solutions. Lamola asserted that challenges in the bilateral relationship with the US should be addressed through constructive dialogue between government representatives, rather than unilateral actions.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced a new policy on Tuesday, imposing visa restrictions on South African officials accused of involvement in “racially-based discrimination.” Rubio expressed concern over racial crimes and government-sponsored discrimination against Afrikaners and other minority populations in South Africa. This includes threats of land expropriation without compensation and incitement to racial violence through derogatory slogans and speeches.
Afrikaners are a white ethnic group in South Africa, primarily descended from Dutch, French, and German settlers who arrived in the Cape region in the 17th century.
The US administration has accused the South African government of mistreating white South Africans, a claim that Pretoria has denied, rejecting allegations of land seizures or mistreatment of specific groups.
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