The GOOD Party said former Deputy Finance Minister Mcebisi Jonas’s appointment as Special Envoy to the US is a choice that reflects integrity and competence, while the African National Congress (ANC) said it was a reaffirmation of the country’s strategic intent to deepen bilateral and multilateral relations with mutual respect, shared interests, and inclusive development.

President Cyril Ramaphosa announced on Monday that Jonas would serve as the official representative for South Africa, amid tension with the US.

GOOD secretary-general Brett Herron said the appointment of a new Special Envoy to the US, following the expulsion of former Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool, was always going to be a significant decision.

“In a time marked by misinformation and polarisation, it is more critical than ever for South Africa to have a credible and principled representative in Washington. Divisive organisations like AfriForum, Solidarity, and the Cape Independence Advocacy Group, along with the Democratic Alliance sending their own envoys, have sought to shape narratives abroad that do not reflect the full picture of South Africa’s realities or aspirations,” Herron said.

He said some of their claims, such as those around land reform, needed to be addressed.

He believes Jonas’s appointment will be an opportunity to restore balance and credibility with the US.

Herron pointed to Jonas’s struggle credentials and technical expertise to qualify him for the role.

“…his time as a Deputy Minister, his business background with Ntiso Investment Holdings, and his chairpersonship of the board at MTN are all meaningful experiences which will contribute to his new role,” Herron highlighted.

He pointed out that during the State Capture Inquiry, Jonas exemplified “ethical leadership and moral courage”.

Herron said Jonas chose to take a principled stand by exposing the corrupt relationship between former President Jacob Zuma and the Gupta brothers, an act, which he said demonstrated integrity in the face of immense pressure.

“He also held the crucial role of Special Envoy on Investment, showing his ability to promote South Africa’s interests within the international sphere. The geopolitical landscape, and particularly the dynamics within the United States, have shifted. The White House is no longer the predictable partner it once was,” Herron stated.

The GOOD Party is hopeful Jonas will balance measured diplomacy and pragmatic engagement, to rebuild trust and position South Africa as a premier investment destination in Africa.

“We are confident that Mcebisi Jonas has the moral authority, strategic insight, and proven leadership to navigate this critical moment in the US–South Africa relationship,” the party added.

Meanwhile, the ANC expressed confidence that Jonas would, in his new role, promote South Africa’s priorities of trade, investment, technology exchange, and youth development, and ensure that South Africans had a voice in a global dialogue on peace, equity and sustainability.

ANC national spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri said his appointment came at a time when the world required cooperation over confrontation, dialogue over division.

“We therefore support President Ramaphosa’s firm commitment to ensuring that South Africa’s foreign policy remains a tool for transformation, development, and peaceful global engagement,” said Bhengu-Motsiri.

The party reiterated its belief in progressive multilateralism, international solidarity, and respectful diplomacy.

“As relations between South Africa and the US evolve, we are encouraged by this move to strengthen engagement through principled dialogue and the pursuit of common goals that serve both our nations and the broader African continent,” she said.