By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Minister of International Relations Ronald Lamola has cautioned political parties in the Government of National Unity (GNU) against presenting their individual foreign policy positions as representative of the state.
Lamola briefed the media ahead of DIRCO Budget Vote Speech at the Imbizo Media Centre, Parliament , Cape Town.
His comments follows recent instances of divergent foreign policy statements from coalition partners, raising concerns over the coherence and consistency of SA’s international diplomatic posture.
Lamola said that only he and mandated ministers could represent government abroad.
“There’s nothing wrong with them engaging outside, but it becomes wrong when they go there, and they distort our policies. We have to clarify, and sometimes they misrepresent that they are representing the GNU.”
Lamola said even if political parties were representing their own constituencies while on international business, they had a duty towards the country, too.
“It helps no one for them to go and distort issues that will harm the national interest of South Africa.”
Lamola said that all government’s international visitors to South Africa represented their countries with aplomb, irrespective of their political affiliation.
He added that all GNU members had agreed to uphold the Constitution of South Africa and existing policies, and that allowing any one member to dictate policy changes would be against the spirit of the GNU’s statement of intent.
Lamola was asked about the US’ participation in the G20 summit to be held in Johannesburg in November, with the minister urging US officials to play a constructive role in the gathering.
He said the G20 was a consensus-based organisation and that the US had a pivotal role in shaping the G20’s policies.
“It is important they make contributions towards the outcomes document…and work towards a consolidated final declaration, added Lamola.”