L. Brent Bozell III has been nominated as U.S. Ambassador to South Africa despite his past opposition to the fight against apartheid. This raises concerns over his suitability for the role. Historically, Bozell condemned the ANC’s militancy and attempted to influence U.S. foreign policy against their leadership. The current geopolitical context remains tense, with ramifications for U.S.-South African relations.
L. Brent Bozell III, selected by President Trump to serve as U.S. Ambassador to South Africa, actively opposed efforts to end apartheid during the 1980s. At that time, Bozell expressed his concerns regarding the militant actions of Black activists fighting against the oppressive apartheid regime, as documented by TPM. His nomination has raised questions about his past positions and the appropriateness of his appointment to such a pivotal role.
Bozell, a prominent right-wing figure, founded the Media Research Center and led the National Conservative Political Action Committee. In 1987, he wrote to The Conservative Caucus announcing his group’s membership in the Coalition Against ANC Terrorism. This coalition aimed to deter U.S. Secretary of State George Shultz from meeting with ANC president Oliver Tambo, who represented the African National Congress.
Despite the coalition’s efforts to dissuade Shultz, he proceeded with the meeting on the very day Bozell’s letter was sent. The ANC, under Tambo’s leadership, justified its militant actions as a necessary response to the brutalities inflicted by the apartheid government, stating that prior peaceful efforts had been ineffective.
In anticipation of Tambo’s visit, the Coalition Against ANC Terrorism disseminated material emphasizing perceived Soviet connections to the ANC, which further underscored their opposition. Notably, criticism of the ANC included testimony from figures associated with the apartheid regime’s interests. Despite the right’s resistance, international support helped catalyze the end of apartheid, culminating in Nelson Mandela’s release and his election as president in 1994.
Bozell’s views have persisted into contemporary affairs, as he commented negatively on media portrayals of Mandela following his death in 2013. His recent nomination comes at a tense time in U.S.-South African relations, exacerbated by South Africa’s allegations against Israel and Trump’s critical remarks regarding its government. Both Trump and his associate, Elon Musk, have condemned the treatment of South Africa’s white minority, further complicating the diplomatic landscape.
The U.S. stance toward South Africa is evolving, especially with Trump’s executive order regarding foreign aid and hints at refugee status for Afrikaners. Trump has asserted, “A massive Human Rights VIOLATION is happening, for all to see,” indicating a firm approach towards alleged injustices.
L. Brent Bozell III’s nomination as U.S. Ambassador to South Africa underscores complex dynamics associated with historical and current U.S.-South African relations. His opposition to the ANC’s struggle against apartheid and his organization’s efforts to influence U.S. policy demonstrate a contentious legacy that may create challenges moving forward. The political climate remains fraught with tension, particularly in light of Trump’s provocative statements regarding South African governance and the treatment of the white minority.
Original Source: talkingpointsmemo.com
