President Ramaphosa appoints Mcebisi Jonas as special envoy to the U.S. to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed former Deputy Minister of Finance Mcebisi Jonas as the country’s special envoy to the United States. The appointment comes just weeks after the expulsion of former South African ambassador Ebrahim Rasool from the U.S., following a dispute with former President Donald Trump’s administration.

In an official statement, the Presidency announced, "I hereby announce the appointment of Mr. Mcebisi Jonas as my special envoy to the United States of America, serving as the official representative of the President and the government of the Republic of South Africa."

Mcebisi Hubert Jonas is a veteran activist and public servant with a long-standing and distinguished career in South African politics and development. He served as Deputy Minister of Finance from May 2014 to March 2017. In his new role, Jonas will be responsible for advancing South Africa's diplomatic, trade, and bilateral priorities. According to a government statement, "He will lead negotiations, foster strategic partnerships, and engage with U.S. government officials and private-sector leaders to promote our nation’s interests."

Jonas is also recognized for his contributions to the establishment of ANC and SACP structures in the post-apartheid Eastern Cape and for playing a key role in forming the province’s new administration in 1994. President Ramaphosa emphasized Jonas’s experience, stating, "As a former Deputy Finance Minister of South Africa, Mr. Jonas brings extensive governmental experience to his new diplomatic role. This appointment underscores his distinguished career and continued commitment to advancing South Africa’s national and economic interests."

The South African government reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening ties with the United States. "For decades, South Africa and the United States of America have maintained a historical and strategic relationship," the statement read. "In the interest of our country, our region, and the rest of our continent, I remain committed to rebuilding and maintaining this relationship for more decades on the basis of mutual respect, recognition of each other’s sovereignty, and benefit for our respective peoples."