Experts divided on Ramaphosa's choice of Roelf Meyer as US envoy

President Cyril Ramaphosa's appointment of Roelf Meyer as the US envoy has drawn mixed reactions from experts. While some praise Ramaphosa for a strategic choice, others express concerns. AfriForum CEO Kallie Kriel criticized the selection, calling Meyer an "ANC cadre" whose history shows a willingness to reposition himself for personal interests, arguing that a principled ambassador is needed. Political analyst Rene Oosthuizen questioned if the appointment addresses present-day diplomatic capacity, cautioning that basing diplomatic strategy on the unpredictability of figures like Donald Trump is a risk. She also expressed concern that this signals an unwillingness to develop new diplomatic talent. Conversely, Benjamin Rapanyane, a senior political science lecturer, highlighted Meyer's fundamental role as a chief mediator with Ramaphosa during apartheid talks, noting their lifelong friendship and Meyer's experience in government. Political analyst Daniel Silke described Meyer as highly capable and a skilled negotiator, suggesting Ramaphosa chose a non-ideological figure to reach out to the US and find common ground. Silke believes Ramaphosa "read the room right" with this appointment, which could be welcomed in diplomatic circles in Washington. Political analyst Piet Croucamp lauded Meyer as a "natural diplomat" with extensive experience in facilitating difficult conversations across continents, calling him well-suited for the challenging task of navigating US-South Africa re