Controversial US bill to sanction South Africa looks likely to go ahead

Africa Melane (standing in for CapeTalk's John Maytham) speaks to Michael Power, a seasoned global strategist and consultant.

Listen below:

A controversial bill making its way through the United States Congress is raising serious questions about the future of diplomatic and economic relations between Washington and Pretoria.

Known as the US-South Africa Bilateral Relations Review Act of 2025, the bill has passed the House Foreign Affairs Committee, marking a significant first step in what could become a new era of targeted sanctions and strained relations.

The proposed legislation demands a full review of the relationship between the two countries and calls for the identification of South African government officials and ANC leaders who may be eligible for sanctions.

"It seems to be more directed at the ANC, as distinct to being directed at the government... I do make that as a very important distinction, because I think it will probably lead to potential action being taken against individuals, rather than at South Africa as a whole."

- Michael Power, Global Strategist and Consultant

Part of the reasoning behind the bill is alleged ties between South Africa and so-called “authoritarian regimes” including Russia, China, Iran, and Hamas.

Power also expects the USA to scrap the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) for all qualifying countries, including South Africa.

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Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the discussion.