Why South Africa has yet to appoint a new US ambassador

It has been a year since South Africa’s ambassador to the United States was expelled, and it appears President Cyril Ramaphosa has decided not to fill the position.

Peter Fabricius, foreign correspondent, explained that South Africa’s relationship with the US remains complex, which emphasises the significance of the role.

“I think they are pretty nervous about the possibility of rejection or expulsion. They haven’t been able to find the ideal person, and they’re making the best of a bad job.

“They realise the importance of the relationship, but they're also wary of how any nomination would be received,” he said.

Fabricius noted that while South Africa has a capable team in place, even without a permanent ambassador, it is not ideal.

“It's not an ideal arrangement, but given their circumstances, I guess they feel it's the best they can do."

He added that should President Cyril Ramaphosa wish to appoint an ambassador, there is a capable candidate in Alistair Ruiters.

“He’s got good relations with the State Department and others. He’s been dealing with the more mundane day-to-day stuff, and when he has different accounts, he’s been able to navigate those issues.”

To listen to Fabricius in conversation with 702 and CapeTalk’s Mandy Wiener, click the audio player below: