Divided opinion over Brent Bozell as next US ambassador to SA

By Johnathan Paoli

The nomination of conservative activist Brent Bozell III as the next US ambassador to South Africa has sparked political debate, with parties responding with outrage, scepticism, and, in some cases, quiet approval.

Bozell III, a staunch conservative, has long been an outspoken critic of liberal media and a vocal supporter of right-wing causes in the United States.

His nomination, published on the US Congress website on Sunday, follows the resignation of former ambassador Reuben Brigety in January.

It also comes at a time when Washington has expelled South Africa’s ambassador, cut financial aid and issued executive orders against the country over what it says are human rights abuses and the country’s stance on Israel at the International Court of Justice.

The appointment, still awaiting Senate confirmation, has been widely interpreted as a move by the Trump administration to closely monitor South Africa amid its growing ties with