In a surprising turn of events, the African National Congress (ANC) has remained silent following the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) issuance of an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin. Meanwhile, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have taken a contrasting stance, welcoming the Russian leader to South Africa. The controversy has led to a diplomatic embarrassment for the ANC, as President Cyril Ramaphosa failed to notify the party about Putin’s withdrawal from the BRICS Summit.
The shockwave hit the South African political landscape when it was announced that President Vladimir Putin of the Russian Federation would no longer attend the BRICS Summit in the country. The ICC had issued an arrest warrant for Putin, a development that sparked intense debate within the country’s political circles.
However, while the ANC chose to remain tight-lipped on the matter, the EFF openly expressed their willingness to welcome the Russian President to South Africa. The EFF’s decision created a divide among political factions, with the ANC seemingly caught off guard by the whole situation.
The office of ANC Secretary General, Fikile Mbalula, was among those who were left in the dark about Putin’s withdrawal from the BRICS Summit. This lack of information from the Presidency left the ANC officials feeling embarrassed and humiliated. In a scramble to gain clarity on the matter, ANC officials quickly sought answers from Vincent Magwenya, the spokesperson for the Presidency.
The absence of an official statement from the ANC led to speculation and public outcry. Many citizens questioned the party’s stance on the ICC’s arrest warrant for Putin, demanding accountability and transparency from their political representatives.
In contrast, the EFF’s public stance on welcoming Putin has garnered attention, as it showcases the party’s willingness to stand by Russia’s President despite the allegations from the ICC. EFF leader, Julius Malema, defended their position, stating that they respect the sovereignty of nations and believe in engaging in dialogue with all leaders, regardless of the charges they might face internationally.
The situation has placed the ANC-led government in a delicate diplomatic position. South Africa, as a member of the ICC, is bound to cooperate with the court’s decisions. The ICC’s arrest warrant for Putin, which cites alleged human rights violations in Russia’s military actions, has raised questions about how the government will navigate its relationship with Russia in light of these developments.
Furthermore, the EFF’s outspoken stance has put pressure on the ANC to clarify its position on the international arrest warrant and its commitment to upholding human rights principles globally. Critics argue that the ANC’s silence appears to condone Putin’s alleged actions and undermines the nation’s reputation as a champion of human rights and justice.
The situation remains fluid, and with the BRICS Summit just days away, the absence of the Russian President will undoubtedly be felt. As South Africa grapples with the diplomatic fallout, the eyes of the nation are on President Cyril Ramaphosa and the ANC leadership, expecting them to address the issue transparently and uphold the country’s commitment to international law and justice.
Source:
https://twitter.com/SundayWorldZA/status/1683824662864699393?t=0NzCbsz7aFIO-ny2Es5z9Q&s=19
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