‘We will not bow our heads’: Ramaphosa hits back at US visa restrictions

President Cyril Ramaphosa has reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty while engaging with the US amid strained relations following the announcement of new visa restrictions.

The US recently announced visa restrictions targeting South African nationals linked to discrimination, land seizures, or violence, though no specific names were disclosed. The South African government has rejected the allegations, stating that its policies are designed to address the legacy of apartheid and centuries of racial inequality.

The US is an important market for us.

International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola described the US move as a mischaracterisation of South Africa’s domestic policies. Despite the tension, President Ramaphosa acknowledged the importance of the bilateral relationship and stated that Pretoria remains willing to negotiate to resolve the challenges affecting these ties.