Trump’s pick touches down: Bozell arrives in SA amid tense ties

Leo Brent Bozell III

Pretoria  – US President Donald Trump’s nominee for ambassador to South Africa, conservative activist and writer Leo Brent Bozell III, has arrived in Johannesburg to take up his post amid strained US–South Africa relations.

He is expected to present his credentials to President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Bozell was formally sworn in as ambassador-designate in January 2026 and was nominated by Trump in March 2025 to succeed Reuben Brigety.

Relations between the two countries have deteriorated over Trump’s accusations that South Africa persecutes its white minority, its ties with Russia, China, and Iran, and US trade and aid measures.

South Africa has not had an ambassador in Washington since the previous envoy, Ebrahim Rasool, was expelled in 2025.

Bozell’s priorities include urging South Africa to drop its genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, advancing Trump’s refugee program for Afrikaners, advocating fair trade for US companies, and promoting bilateral business interests.

He also plans to communicate US concerns over South Africa’s “geostrategic drift” and alleged corruption and security risks.

While his past political work includes opposing US engagement with the ANC in the 1980s due to its ties with the Soviet Union, Bozell has emphasized that he will carry out his role “with respect for the South African people” and seeks opportunities for a lasting partnership despite disagreements.

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