CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS
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ANC WELCOMES THE DECLARATION OF THE ISRAELI CHARGÉ D’AFFAIRES AS PERSONA NON GRATA
The African National Congress (ANC) applauds the Government of the Republic of South Africa, acting through the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, for its firm and principled stance in declaring the Israeli Chargé d’Affaires persona non grata. This action affirms South Africa’s sovereign right to manage its international relations in line with its Constitution, national dignity, and established diplomatic norms.
The ANC notes that this decision follows repeated and unacceptable violations of diplomatic conduct that undermine South Africa’s sovereignty and disrespect its highest office. Diplomatic relations are governed by clear, globally accepted rules, including adherence to protocol, respect for host nations, and compliance with the Vienna Convention. Any deviation from these principles cannot be condoned.
The ANC further notes the expulsion of South Africa’s Ambassador to the State of Palestine and welcomes the clarification by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation that Mr Shaun Byneveldt is the duly appointed Ambassador of the Republic of South Africa to the State of Palestine and not to Israel. While Article 9 of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations permits a receiving state to declare a diplomat persona non grata without providing reasons, this provision is intended to be exercised in good faith and in defence of diplomatic integrity, not as a tool of political obstruction or retaliation.
In this instance, Israel’s action, directed at a diplomat accredited to the State of Palestine and compelled to operate through Israel solely because of the ongoing occupation, constitutes a misuse of Article 9 and further underscores Israel’s persistent refusal to honour international law, United Nations resolutions, and the broad international consensus recognising Palestinian statehood and the inalienable right of the Palestinian people to self-determination.
South Africa is a sovereign democratic state, and all foreign missions accredited to the Republic are expected to conduct themselves with respect, restraint, and professionalism. The ANC reiterates that diplomatic engagement must take place through recognised and lawful channels, free from insults, interference, or conduct that compromises mutual trust.
The ANC joins the government’s call on the Government of Israel to ensure that all future diplomatic engagements fully respect South Africa’s sovereignty and the universally accepted principles of international relations.
The ANC reaffirms its support for a principled foreign policy anchored in international law, multilateralism, and the defence of South Africa’s dignity and sovereignty.
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