The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have voiced staunch opposition to the recent visa-free agreement between South Africa and Ukraine, branding it a betrayal of South Africa’s longstanding alliance with Russia. EFF spokesperson Leigh-Ann Mathys criticised the deal, which was spearheaded by Democratic Alliance (DA) Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber, as a “pro-Western move that disregards South Africa’s historic solidarity with Russia and compromises its position within the BRICS coalition.”
The visa-free agreement allows diplomatic, official, and service passport holders from South Africa and Ukraine to travel without visas. According to Mathys, the decision bypassed Cabinet and President Cyril Ramaphosa, illustrating what she described as “white supremacist arrogance” by the DA and a neglect of South Africa’s strategic goals.
Russia and South Africa: A Historic Alliance
The EFF argues that this agreement jeopardises a crucial relationship dating back to the apartheid era, during which Russia supported South Africa’s anti-colonial efforts. As founding members of BRICS, South Africa and Russia have consistently promoted economic and developmental independence from Western influence. This visa-free policy, according to the EFF, disrespects these bonds and potentially aligns South Africa with NATO’s agenda, which the EFF claims aims to encircle Russia.
The party is concerned that allowing Ukrainian officials visa-free entry might open South Africa to NATO-aligned intelligence activities against Russia. Mathys stated, “The DA has aligned itself with Euro-Western interests, using this agreement as a potential gateway for NATO operatives to exploit South African territory to Russia’s detriment.”
EFF Urges Ramaphosa to Block Agreement
In addition to alleging a lack of procedural protocol, the EFF argues that the agreement reflects a pro-Western bias that could undermine South Africa’s role in BRICS. They call on President Ramaphosa to refrain from ratifying the deal, warning of potential diplomatic fallout and erosion of public support for South Africa’s anti-imperialist stance.
The EFF added, “We hope that President Ramaphosa does not ratify this agreement as it will compromise our ties with Russia and our position within BRICS.”
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