South Africa demarches US ambassador over 'undiplomatic' remarks
Mar 12th 2026
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation formally demarched US Ambassador Leo Brent Bozell III over remarks on BEE and the Expropriation Act, drawing political backlash and a clarification from the ambassador; this article was updated to clarify wording around the demarche.
- DIRCO demarched Ambassador Leo Brent Bozell III over comments on Black Economic Empowerment and the Expropriation Act.
- International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola said ambassadors should support constructive bilateral relations.
- Bozell acknowledged South Africa's need for redress and said he is willing to work constructively with the government.
- Bozell clarified that the United States respects the independence and findings of South Africa's judiciary.
- The EFF called for the ambassador's removal following the remarks.