Trump Appoints Media Critic Brent Bozell as Ambassador to South Africa

President Trump has nominated media critic Brent Bozell as U.S. ambassador to South Africa amidst declining relations. This move follows the expulsion of South Africa’s ambassador and highlights ongoing tensions related to U.S. policies and perceptions of discrimination in South Africa. The country aims to prioritize the strengthening of its ties with the U.S. despite these challenges.

On Wednesday, President Donald Trump announced the nomination of Brent Bozell, a prominent right-wing media critic, as the United States ambassador to South Africa. Should the U.S. Senate confirm this appointment, Bozell will assume the position during a period of significant tension between Washington and Pretoria, following the recent expulsion of South Africa’s envoy to the United States.

In his announcement, Trump stated, “I am pleased to announce that Brent Bozell will be our next United States Ambassador to South Africa,” praising Bozell for his “fearless tenacity” and notable experience. Bozell is the founder of the Media Research Center, an organization that aims to counter what it describes as leftist bias in the national news media, claiming to expose “Fake News hypocrites” for many years.

Critically, it has been noted that Bozell’s son was among those convicted for involvement in the January 6, 2021, assault on the Capitol; however, he was subsequently pardoned by Trump earlier this year. The relationship between the United States and South Africa has deteriorated since Trump ceased financial assistance to the country, citing its policies perceived as discriminatory against white citizens.

Stirred by his advisor, Elon Musk, who has South African roots, Trump has accused the current government of systemic discrimination against its white minority. Recently, he signed an executive order that allows for preferential refugee status for Afrikaners, the ethnic group that historically governed under apartheid. Following these developments, former ambassador Ebrahim Rasool returned to South Africa to a warm reception, expressing no regrets about his expulsion.

As of last week, South Africa, which currently holds the presidency of the G20, identified strengthening its relationship with the United States as a priority, acknowledging that the U.S. ranks as its second-largest trading partner.

In conclusion, Brent Bozell’s nomination as ambassador to South Africa underscores the ongoing tensions and complex dynamics within U.S.-South Africa relations. Trump’s administration has faced criticism over its policies toward South Africa, including accusations of discrimination, while Bozell’s controversial background may raise further questions about U.S. diplomatic approaches. These developments come at a critical time as South Africa seeks to improve its ties with the United States.

Original Source: www.nbcrightnow.com