EFF’s Gardee Condemns Jonas’ US Envoy Role Linked to MTN’s Ties with Iran
The announcement of former Deputy Finance Minister Mcebisi Jonas’ appointment as South Africa’s ambassador to the United States has sparked controversy and criticism from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party. EFF’s Secretary General, Godrich Gardee, in particular, has called Jonas’ new role “unfortunate” due to his previous links with telecommunications company MTN and its dealings with Iran, a known US adversary.
In a recent statement, Gardee raised concerns over the potential conflict of interest in Jonas’ new position. He pointed out that during his tenure as the Deputy Finance Minister, Jonas had accompanied then Minister of Finance, Pravin Gordhan, on a trip to Iran in 2016. The trip was to discuss MTN’s $4.2 billion fine, which was imposed by US authorities for violating sanctions against Iran. Gardee argues that this raises questions about Jonas’ impartiality in matters that may involve MTN and Iran in his new role as US ambassador.
EFF’s Gardee further called for Jonas to disclose any financial ties he may have with MTN or any other companies that have been blacklisted by the US. He also urged President Cyril Ramaphosa to reconsider Jonas’ appointment, stating that it goes against the EFF’s principle of not working with entities that have been sanctioned by the US.
The EFF’s concerns stem from MTN’s involvement in breaching sanctions against Iran in 2008. The company was found to have illegally transferred millions of dollars to Iran through its Iranian subsidiary, MTN Irancell. As a result, they were slapped with the hefty fine by US authorities and were also forced to pull out of the Iranian market.
However, despite the controversy surrounding MTN’s dealings with Iran, the company remains one of the largest telecommunications providers in South Africa. They have also been a major contributor to the country’s economy, providing key services to the public and creating job opportunities.
In light of this, the EFF’s criticism of Jonas’ appointment may be viewed as unwarranted and an attempt to discredit him. Jonas has a long and distinguished career in the public service, having served as the Deputy Minister of Finance and the Chairperson of the Public Investment Corporation (PIC). His credentials make him a qualified and capable candidate for the US envoy role.
It is also worth noting that the US and South Africa have a strong and established diplomatic relationship, which has been mutually beneficial to both countries. The appointment of Jonas as the ambassador to the US could potentially strengthen this bond and facilitate further trade and economic opportunities between the two nations.
President Ramaphosa has defended Jonas’ appointment, stating that he was chosen because of his experience and his ability to represent South Africa effectively in the US. He has also dismissed the EFF’s accusations, stating that they are baseless and have no influence on his decision.
As South Africa’s representative in the US, Jonas will have an important role in promoting the country’s interests, fostering diplomatic relations, and attracting investments. His past ties with MTN should not overshadow his capabilities and hinder him from fulfilling his duties as an envoy.
In conclusion, the EFF’s criticism of Jonas’ appointment as the US ambassador is premature and lacks substantial evidence. Jonas’ professional track record and experience make him a suitable candidate for the role. The EFF should support the government’s decision and work towards building a stronger relationship with the US, rather than creating unnecessary controversies.
