Ex-South African leader says US's help is not wanted

(MENAFN) Former South African leader Jacob Zuma has criticized current President Cyril Ramaphosa for seeking assistance from the United States, arguing that international interference poses a threat to the country’s independence.

Speaking to supporters of the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party in KwaMaphumulo over the weekend, Zuma strongly questioned the rationale behind relying on outside powers—particularly the US—for help in dealing with domestic matters.

“Why must we expect strangers, sitting in Washington, to understand what we are going through?” Zuma asked during his speech. “We know our problems better than anyone else. We should be the ones to solve them.”

Zuma’s remarks followed Ramaphosa’s recent diplomatic mission to the US capital, where a team of ministers attempted to restore diplomatic ties and stimulate foreign investment amid ongoing economic strain.

According to reports, the South African delegation held talks at the White House and engaged with key business representatives, aiming to advance technological cooperation while easing international concerns regarding land reform and criminal activity.

Tensions between the US and South Africa had intensified after American officials raised allegations of human rights abuses and criticized governance failures in crucial sectors. As stated by reports, Ramaphosa’s administration used the trip to counter these claims—describing them as exaggerated—and reaffirm South Africa’s allegiance to democratic governance.

MENAFN16062025000045017281ID1109679941