The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has clarified that recent remarks by South African National Defence Force (SANDF) Chief General Rudzani Maphwanya expressing solidarity with Iran do not reflect the country’s official diplomatic stance.
DIRCO Director-General Zane Dangor confirmed that the department is engaging with the SANDF to prevent similar incidents in the future. “The responsibility to communicate South Africa’s diplomatic and political positions lies with the presidency and DIRCO,” Dangor stated. He emphasized that General Maphwanya’s comments during his visit to Iran were not endorsed by the government.
DIRCO Rejects US Human Rights Report
The clarification came during an interview where Dangor also dismissed a recent US State Department report criticizing South Africa’s human rights record as “inaccurate and deeply flawed.” The report cited concerns over land expropriation policies, alleged extrajudicial killings, and the treatment of racial minorities.
Dangor argued that the assessment was politically slanted, pointing out that South Africa’s land reform efforts had been viewed positively by the UN Human Rights Council as a step toward addressing historical inequities. “The report distorts facts to fit a particular narrative,” he said, adding that DIRCO would engage US officials to challenge the claims.
Ongoing Diplomatic Tensions with the US
Despite strained relations, Dangor confirmed that diplomatic channels with the US remain open. However, he acknowledged frustrations over Washington’s unilateral approach, particularly on trade and geopolitical issues. “We will continue to present facts and uphold our constitutional principles, even when they clash with powerful nations’ expectations,” he said.
Regarding the absence of a South African ambassador in Washington, Dangor noted that while an appointment could improve dialogue, current engagements through political offices and special envoys would continue.
Presidency Backs DIRCO’s Stance
Dangor revealed that DIRCO’s statement distancing South Africa from General Maphwanya’s Iran remarks had been endorsed by President Cyril Ramaphosa. The department plans further discussions with the SANDF to reinforce protocol on international engagements.
As South Africa navigates complex diplomatic terrain, DIRCO maintains its commitment to multilateralism—even as it pushes back against what it sees as biased foreign critiques.