US ambassador to SA Reuben Brigety's resignation a welcome relief for some political parties
Brigety announced on Monday that he is stepping down in light of the recently held US elections, it will take effect from 10 January 2025.
US ambassador to South Africa, Reuben Brigety. Picture: X/@USAmbRSA
JOHANNESBURG - Several political parties have reacted to news of US ambassador Reuben Brigety's resignation.
Brigety announced on Monday that he is stepping down in light of the recently held US elections, it will take effect from 10 January 2025.
This is standard procedure during a change of presidential administration
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has welcomed Brigety's decision. While African National Congress Secretary General Fikile Mbalula described the development as good news.
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Brigety’s tenure here has been marked by controversy – stemming from his unfounded claims that South Africa loaded weapons onto Russia’s Lady R Vessel.
Despite the ambassador listing progress and highlights achieved between the two nations since being posted to South Africa in 2022.
The EFF in a short statement says his tenure was marred by arrogance and imperialist interference
It accused Brigety of causing reputational harm, the decline of the rand and strained diplomatic relations
While the ANC is yet to formally respond to the development, Mbalula described the announcement as good news on social media
Brigety will leave South Africa just days before Donald Trump’s inauguration