Since returning to office in January, Donald Trump has reignited tensions with South Africa, accusing the government of committing “genocide” against White farmers and threatening a 30% tariff on exports. In March, the US expelled South African Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool following critical remarks about Trump. Amid this pressure, Jonas was appointed to help reset relations but has yet to visit the US or meet officials.

According to South Africa’s Democratic Alliance, the US government formally rejected Jonas’s diplomatic credentials in May. Reports also suggest his past critical comments about Trump made him unacceptable to the current administration.

Pretoria Denies Rejection, Defends Diplomatic Approach

South Africa’s Presidency dismissed the US rejection claims as “sensationalist disinformation,” arguing that special envoys are not required to present formal credentials. It said Jonas continues to assist in “difficult but constructive” trade talks led by other government departments.

Officials also pointed to a May phone call and visit by President Cyril Ramaphosa to Washington as evidence of active diplomacy. They maintained that Jonas’s presence in the US was not urgently required and emphasized that negotiations with the US are ongoing.