The latest dispute marks another deterioration in relations between SA and the US, which remain divided over land reform, race-based economic policies, farm killings and definitions of hate speech.
Bozell was previously summoned in March after criticising SA court findings concerning the “Kill the Boer” chant.
Political Analyst Dr Shingai Mutizwa-Mangiza said the latest summons followed reports that Bozell had described diplomacy as useless. “One of the things that Bozell said was that diplomacy is useless,” Mutizwa-Mangiza said.
“Whether this is the official position of the US or the posture Bozell has taken is as yet unclear. Either way, the statements could be construed as constituting undiplomatic conduct.”
Mutizwa-Mangiza said Bozell had reportedly been summoned three times since arriving in SA, an unusually high number for a diplomat serving a relatively short period. “This is certainly not your conventional diplomatic approach or conduct,” Mutizwa-Mangiza said.
Mutizwa-Mangiza said the latest incident should be viewed against broader tensions over Washington’s demands concerning hate speech, land policy and claims linked to farm killings.
The US has continued raising concerns about SA domestic policies, while Pretoria has defended national sovereignty, legislation and court decisions.
Mutizwa-Mangiza said the SA government had attempted to address US concerns through formal diplomatic channels, including detailed responses from President Cyril Ramaphosa. “The government has taken what I would deem the appropriate steps,” Mutizwa-Mangiza said.
“Some people may argue that this may be bordering on leniency. Some may even argue that the grounds are sufficient for an expulsion.”
Mutizwa-Mangiza referred to the earlier expulsion of SA Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool from the US, noting that Pretoria had not taken equivalent action against Bozell. “The fact that SA has not reciprocated speaks to the maturity with which the government is dealing with these issues,” Mutizwa-Mangiza said.
Mutizwa-Mangiza called for SA to remain firm while continuing to engage Washington through diplomatic channels. “SA is a sovereign state. SA has national interests and should not be cajoled otherwise,” Mutizwa-Mangiza said.
–ChannelAfrica–
