'It is a mockery' - ANC slams US move to sanction its officials
ANC spokesperson, Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri says the idea of targeted sanctions against a party that led 'the freedom struggle,' is a 'mockery' and is 'embarrassing' to anyone who entertains such thoughts.
The US South Africa Bilateral Relations Review Act cleared its first legislative hurdle when it was passed by the House Foreign Affairs Committee on Tuesday.
The bill demands a full review of ties and possible sanctions against some ANC officials.
Bhengu-Motsiri claims these sanctions are a product of 'nefarious' propaganda led by right-wing extremist organisations both at home and in the US.
She adds they will carefully assess the situation.
"We will have to calmly sit down and reflect on the situation and the implications of this proposed bill that is still going for debate in one of the houses of the US Congress,"
"We are also in contact with our historical allies who were active in the fight against Apartheid and are residents in the US," she said.
The Committee Chairman, Brian Mast, says the ANC's direct engagement with Hamas leaders and the country's case against Israel at the International Court of Justice are further proof of worsening relations between South Africa and the US.
Meanwhile, International Relations analysts and experts have previously told eNCA that the time has now arrived for South Africa to address its relations with the US. They've also urged parties to get their ducks in a row inside the GNU, as the cracks are starting to show.
Bhengu-Motsiri agrees.
"There has to be a discussion here at home among various state and non-state actors about the implications of this bill. The idea that the targeted sanctions are going to be aimed at ANC leaders is just a start..." she said.
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