‘White genocide’ claims: What Holomisa told US envoy Bozell

Cape Town – United Democratic Movement (UDM) leader and Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Major General Retired Bantu Holomisa, has called for strengthened diplomatic engagement between South Africa and the United States, warning that recent tensions require “frank and immediate” dialogue.

Speaking during a courtesy meeting with US Ambassador to South Africa Leo Brent Bozell III, Holomisa acknowledged that relations between the two countries are under strain but stressed that engagement remains critical.

“You arrive in South Africa at a time when relations between our two countries are experiencing a measure of strain. Yet it is precisely during such moments that dialogue becomes even more important,” Holomisa said.

He noted that South Africans had been “taken aback” by allegations circulating internationally, including claims of genocide and land seizures, urging the ambassador to verify such assertions firsthand.

“As you embark on this programme of engaging with South Africans, you have the advantage of directly verifying the authenticity of these allegations,” he said.

Strong economic cooperation

Holomisa welcomed ongoing economic discussions between the two countries, particularly around the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), highlighting their importance for bilateral trade.

“These engagements… are vital for maintaining strong economic cooperation between our nations,” he said, referring to talks led by Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau.

The UDM leader emphasised the historical ties between South Africa and the US, pointing to Washington’s role in supporting the anti-apartheid struggle through sanctions and international advocacy.

“The relationship between the United States and South Africa has historically been a strong one, grounded in shared values and mutual respect,” Holomisa said.

He invoked the legacy of leaders such as Nelson Mandela and Oliver Tambo, noting that South Africa’s transition to democracy in 1994 demonstrated the power of negotiation over conflict.

Structured bilateral mechanisms

Holomisa also proposed reviving structured bilateral mechanisms similar to the Al Gore–Thabo Mbeki Binational Commission to address disputes more effectively.

“One possible way to strengthen relations could be to revive or reimagine structured bilateral mechanisms… [which] proved highly effective in addressing outstanding issues between our countries,” he said.

Turning to global affairs, Holomisa expressed concern over the ongoing Middle East conflict, reiterating the UDM’s position that a negotiated settlement is the only viable solution.

“The UDM does not see a sustainable solution to the conflict between Israel and Palestine other than through dialogue and negotiations around the table,” he said.

He added that both South Africa and the US could play a constructive role in facilitating peace efforts.

Daily interaction

Holomisa further argued that South Africa’s diverse society offers a practical example of coexistence, even among people from conflict-affected regions.

“This daily interaction… demonstrates that with dignity, dialogue, and opportunity, peaceful coexistence is achievable,” he said.

He warned that the continued conflict has global economic and humanitarian consequences, particularly for developing economies, and called for an urgent ceasefire.

“All parties engaged in the current conflict must commit decisively to a ceasefire and pursue a durable, negotiated solution that safeguards civilian lives,” Holomisa said.