politics
March 13, 2026
'Hate speech' and 'genocide' claims: Why has South Africa summoned the US envoy?
South Africa’s foreign minister says US envoy Leo Brent Bozell III has been summoned to explain remarks criticizing an anti-apartheid chant
TL;DR
- South Africa summoned new US Ambassador Leo Brent Bozell III over 'undiplomatic remarks.'
- Bozell criticized a South African court ruling that found the chant ‘Kill the Boer’ was not hate speech, stating he personally believes it is.
- He also questioned South African policies, including those addressing historic injustice, and urged alignment with Washington on key international issues.
- The US envoy later clarified his remarks on the chant were personal and the US government respects South Africa's judiciary.
- South Africa's Foreign Ministry stated the ambassador has apologized and expressed regret for his comments.
- The incident highlights broader strains in US-South Africa relations, including past aid cuts and criticisms of South Africa's domestic and foreign policies by the Trump administration.
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