United States Congressman Ronny Jackson says his proposed legislation to review the bilateral relationship between Washington and Pretoria has passed through a key committee in the House of Representatives.
Jackson, a Republican from Texas and former White House physician, introduced the bill in April. The legislation seeks to pave the way for sanctions against what he terms “corrupt” South African government officials, particularly those aligning with American geopolitical rivals such as China, Russia, and Iran.
In a statement posted on the social media platform X, Jackson accused South Africa of turning its back on longstanding ties with the US and its allies, claiming the country had instead chosen to “side with communists and terrorists.”
The bill’s passage through committee marks the first step toward potential enactment, and Jackson framed it as a measure that would grant former President Donald Trump the tools necessary to “hold the corrupt government of South Africa accountable.”
Tensions between the two nations have grown amid accusations of Pretoria’s deepening relationships with Moscow and Beijing.
The absence of a South African ambassador to Washington following the departure of Ebrahim Rasool earlier this year has further complicated diplomatic engagement.
Jackson said the proposed legislation would allow for a comprehensive review of the US-South Africa relationship. Wrote Jackson:
South Africa made its choice when they abandoned America and our allies and sided with communists and terrorists.
Today, my bill to fully review America’s relationship with South Africa and give President Trump the tools necessary to hold their corrupt government accountable passed through committee.
The days of allowing our so-called ‘allies’ to walk all over us are OVER!
A full House vote is still months away, with Congress in recess until September. If the bill passes the House, it will then proceed to the Senate for further consideration.
More: SABC News
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