A recent move to allow visa-free entry for Ukrainian diplomats to South Africa has stirred significant political tension.
Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber, a member of the Democratic Alliance (DA), South Africa’s largest opposition party and coalition partner, announced the deal on Sunday, describing Ukraine as a “valued ally” and hailing it as an “historic agreement” on social media.
However, President Cyril Ramaphosa’s administration quickly rebuked Schreiber’s announcement, stating that he lacked formal authorization to finalize or publicize the agreement. Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya questioned the validity of Schreiber’s declaration, stating, “It is unclear how the minister can announce the signature of an international agreement without prior formal authorization.”
Critics of the deal view it as undermining South Africa’s historical ties with Russia. The ruling African National Congress (ANC), which lost its majority in May’s general election, has traditionally upheld strong relations with Moscow. The ANC’s coalition partnership with the DA has exposed growing ideological divisions, particularly over South Africa’s stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Tensions recently escalated when Ramaphosa referred to Russia as a “valued friend” during the BRICS summit in Kazan, sparking outrage among DA members who have condemned Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola clarified on Monday that the agreement with Ukraine is not yet finalized, emphasizing that all diplomatic channels must be properly observed. During a joint appearance with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, Lamola stated, “Once all the diplomatic processes have been concluded, the agreement will be signed.”
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), a non-coalition opposition party, strongly criticized the deal, with spokesperson Leigh-Ann Mathys calling it a “betrayal” of South Africa’s commitment to Russia. Meanwhile, former President Jacob Zuma’s new opposition party, uMkhonto weSizwe (MK), urged the president to reject the agreement, accusing the DA of promoting “imperialist” interests in South Africa.
The controversy highlights South Africa’s complex geopolitical landscape, where internal alliances and ideological differences challenge the country’s diplomatic posture, especially in relation to its historical allies.
