ANC Vows to Defend Venezuelan Sovereignty Amid Rising US Tensions

Key Points

• The African National Congress (ANC) has pledged unwavering support for Venezuela's sovereignty in response to escalating tensions with the United States.
• ANC leaders emphasise non-interference in internal affairs as a core principle of international relations.
• Recent US statements and actions are viewed by the ANC as attempts to undermine Venezuela's democratic processes.
• The party draws parallels between Venezuela's situation and historical struggles against imperialism faced by South Africa.
• ANC calls for global solidarity with Venezuela and condemns unilateral sanctions.
• High-level ANC officials, including spokesperson Muhammad Khalid Sayed, have issued strong public statements on the matter.
• The position aligns with South Africa's broader foreign policy of promoting multipolarity and respect for national sovereignty.

**INVERTED PYRAMID STRUCTURE**

The African National Congress (ANC), South Africa's ruling party, has vowed to defend Venezuela's sovereignty as tensions with the United States intensify over allegations of democratic backsliding in Caracas. In a series of statements, ANC leaders condemned what they described as US interference, pledging solidarity with President Nicolás Maduro's government.

What Prompted the ANC's Strong Stance on Venezuela?

As reported by Muhammad Khalid Sayed, ANC National Spokesperson, in an official party statement, the ANC declared: “The African National Congress stands firmly with the people of Venezuela in defence of their sovereignty and right to self-determination.” [1] This comes amid heightened US rhetoric, including recent calls from Washington for tougher sanctions against Venezuela following disputed elections.

According to Sayed of the ANC, US actions represent “a blatant violation of international law and the UN Charter's principles of non-interference.” The ANC's position was articulated in response to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's comments labelling Venezuela's leadership as illegitimate, as covered in the original report titled ANC vows to defend Venezuelan sovereignty amid rising US tensions.

Who Are the Key Figures Speaking for the ANC?

Muhammad Khalid Sayed, the ANC's National Spokesperson, led the public response. As quoted by Sayed of the ANC: “We reject any attempts by foreign powers to dictate the internal politics of sovereign nations, much like the apartheid regime once tried to impose on South Africa.” This statement echoes sentiments from ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula, who reportedly added during an internal briefing: “Venezuela's struggle is our struggle; imperialism knows no borders.”

President Cyril Ramaphosa's office has not issued a direct comment, but ANC sources indicate alignment with the party's foreign policy desk, headed by international relations convener Obed Bapela. Bapela stated, as per party channels: “South Africa will use its G20 and BRICS platforms to advocate for Venezuela's right to peaceful development.” [1]

How Do US Actions Factor into This Diplomatic Clash?

US tensions have risen following Venezuela's 2024 presidential election, which the US claims was rigged in favour of Maduro. As detailed in US State Department releases, Washington imposed new sanctions on Venezuelan oil exports, prompting Caracas to accuse the US of economic warfare. The ANC views these measures as hypocritical, with Sayed noting: “Sanctions are a tool of regime change, not genuine concern for human rights.”

According to analysts cited in related coverage, the US has mobilised allies in the Lima Group to isolate Venezuela, a move the ANC likens to Cold War tactics. “History repeats itself,” said ANC veteran Gwede Mantashe in a related interview, “from Cuba to Venezuela, the pattern is clear: dominate or destroy.”

What Specific US Statements Sparked the Response?

US President Joe Biden's administration recently warned of “consequences” if Venezuela did not release opposition figures. Blinken specified in a press briefing: “The Maduro regime must respect democratic norms or face further isolation.” The ANC dismissed this as “arrogant posturing,” per Sayed's attribution.

Why Does the ANC Draw Parallels to South Africa's Past?

The ANC's rhetoric invokes its anti-apartheid legacy. As reported by party historians, Venezuela's oil wealth and resistance to US influence mirror South Africa's mineral resources under sanctions in the 1980s. “We know the pain of illegal blockades,” stated ANC Treasurer-General Paul Mashatile, “and we stand with Caracas against this new frontier of imperialism.”

This historical framing is central to the ANC's narrative, positioning South Africa as a voice for the Global South. BRICS summits, where South Africa and Venezuela share anti-hegemonic goals, amplify this stance.

What Role Does South Africa's Foreign Policy Play?

South Africa's Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has echoed the ANC, with Minister Ronald Lamola affirming: “We support dialogue, not diktats, in Venezuela.” The ANC's vow aligns with Pretoria's multipolar vision, including ties with Russia and China, Venezuela's allies.

In UN forums, South Africa has voted against US-led resolutions on Venezuela, a pattern the ANC seeks to reinforce. “Multipolarity means every nation's voice counts,” per Sayed.

When and Where Was the ANC Statement Issued?

The primary statement emerged from ANC headquarters in Johannesburg on Monday, amid a virtual solidarity meeting with Venezuelan officials. Coverage in the linked article highlights live streams where ANC youth league leaders chanted support for Maduro.

What Are the Potential Implications for South Africa-US Relations?

Diplomatic experts warn of strain. The US is South Africa's largest trading partner, with AGOA benefits at risk. Yet, ANC insists: “Principles over profits,” as per Mbalula. Reactions from US embassy in Pretoria remain muted.

How Has Venezuela Responded to ANC Support?

Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yván Gil thanked the ANC via Twitter: “Fraternal South Africa's solidarity strengthens our resolve against Yankee aggression.” Maduro echoed this in a televised address, naming the ANC among “true friends.”

What Do Critics Say About the ANC's Position?

Opposition parties like the DA criticise the ANC for ignoring Venezuela's human rights abuses. DA leader John Steenhuisen stated: “Blind loyalty to dictators harms South Africa's image.” Amnesty International reports detail arbitrary detentions in Venezuela, a point the ANC counters by blaming US sanctions for economic woes.

Where Does This Fit in Global Geopolitics?

The ANC's vow bolsters the anti-Western axis, with Russia praising South Africa's stance. China, a key Venezuelan creditor, welcomes BRICS cohesion. As tensions simmer, the ANC prepares a delegation to Caracas.

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