DIRCO Responds to US Visa Restrictions As Ronald Lamola Defends South Africa’s Sovereign Rights
- The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has responded to the unilateral visa restrictions announced by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio
- The restrictions target foreign nationals alleged to be involved in race-based discrimination, uncompensated land seizures, and incitement of violence against minorities
- DIRCO Minister Ronald Lamola expressed concern over the restrictions, saying the decision stemmed from a mischaracterisation of South Africa's domestic policies
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Byron Pillay, a Briefly News journalist, has dedicated a decade to reporting on the South African political landscape, crime, and social issues. He worked as a newspaper journalist for 10 years before transitioning to online.
GAUTENG — The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has pushed back against the United States after Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced visa restrictions.
The restrictions target foreign nationals alleged to be involved in race-based discrimination, uncompensated land seizures, and incitement of violence against minorities, including Afrikaners.
In a statement issued on 16 September 2026, Minister Ronald Lamola said he noted the decision with concern, and accused unspecified fringe groups of misrepresenting South Africa's domestic policies to American authorities.
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US Ambassador to South Africa Leo Brent Bozell III has warned that Washington could take further action against South Africa.
DIRCO defends its reform agenda
Lamola argued that South Africa's post-apartheid legislation, including measures addressing land and racial equity, is a constitutional obligation rather than an act of discrimination.
"South Africa remains committed to addressing the injustices of the past as well as contemporary challenges as a sovereign nation. It is our sovereign right to enact legislation that addresses the consequences of centuries of racial injustice.
"Legislation adopted during the democratic era aims to improve the living conditions of people who were excluded from opportunities for centuries. This approach aligns with practices in other countries that have had similar historical experiences," the statement read.
DIRCO acknowledged that Washington may hold different views on specific measures but maintained that those differences should be addressed through the country's constitutional institutions and democratic processes, not through external pressure.
You can view the full statement below.
Marco Rubio condemns the 'Kill the Boer' chant
Briefly News reported that the US Secretary of State received criticism from South Africans after he weighed in on the Kill the Boer chant.
Rubio touched on the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) president Julius Malema using it during rallies, saying it incited violence.
He claimed the media did not provide coverage of Malema singing the chant and said there was insufficient outrage over the song.
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Source: Briefly News
