South Africa on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, criticized new visa restrictions announced by the United States, calling for respect for its democracy, constitution and sovereignty.
International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola said the measures announced by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio were based on what Pretoria described as a mischaracterization of South Africa’s domestic policies. The government maintained that it has a sovereign right to enact laws aimed at addressing the country’s history of racial inequality.
South Africa said its democratic-era legislation was intended to address historical exclusion and promote equality. It also cited the Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Act 16 of 2023, saying the legislation provides a legal framework for tackling hate speech and prosecuting hate crimes.
Pretoria acknowledged that Washington may disagree with some of its policies but said such differences should be addressed through constitutional processes, the rule of law and diplomatic engagement. The government also rejected claims that crime in South Africa specifically targets people on the basis of race, colour or social origin, saying crime affects the broader population.
South Africa said ongoing bilateral discussions with the US demonstrated the importance both countries placed on resolving their differences, stressing that tensions should be addressed through constructive diplomatic engagement rather than unilateral measures.