Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya has addressed criticism over South Africa’s communication approach during the recent bilateral engagements with the United States, particularly surrounding the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum.
In an interview with Newzroom Afrika, Magwenya clarified that what some have labelled as “clumsy messaging” was, in fact, a calculated diplomatic stance by President Cyril Ramaphosa, who was “never going to allow himself to be dragged through the mud of political theatres.”
Magwenya acknowledged that there were divergent tones during the event, with some South African delegates appearing unprepared or surprised when asked to speak.
“You would have noticed that Ernie Els, Retief Goosen and Johann Rupert did not expect to talk. You could see that they were taken by surprise when they were asked to say something,” he said.
He added that these individuals typically avoid political commentary and instead focus on golf.
“Ernie and Retief, when they do speak to the media, [they] talk about golf. They don’t address complex political issues.”
Responding to concerns that the South African delegation lacked coherence, Magwenya insisted that “the President delivered the script as it was planned,” emphasising South Africa’s intention to trade and engage constructively.
“What we’re going to get out of this bilateral engagement is not what you saw and what the public saw. It’s what’s being discussed now behind closed doors.”
The spokesperson highlighted the strategic goal of securing either a continued position within AGOA trade scheme for the benefit of South Africa and that of the continent or establishing “a firm foundation to start reshaping a new trade relationship framework.”
When pressed on why the delegation did not more forcefully refute controversial narratives, such as the claim of “white genocide” in South Africa, Magwenya defended the President’s composure:
“You could see that President Ramaphosa being provoked, you could see he was having his eyes popping and he did not fall for the trap.
”The president did well in stepping back from that confrontational posture,” said Magwenya.
He described the President’s performance as “measured” and “diplomatic,” crediting this approach with maintaining engagement momentum:
“He was never going to allow himself to be dragged through the mud of political theatres. Even now, more than an hour later, they are still logged in a meeting, which has included a working lunch.
He noted that in previous experiences, either President would have left without even staying for lunch.”
Magwenya highlighted that the delegation chose diplomacy over drama. “There was a well-planned ahead-of-time political theatre show that was going to be delivered. And they delivered it. And we think now, going forward, we’re going to be guided by more substantive issues.”
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