The United States has appointed Leo Brent Bozell III as its new ambassador to South Africa, filling the position left vacant after Reuben Brigety’s resignation earlier this year.
Bozell, a conservative activist and founder of the Media Research Center, is known for his work in monitoring perceived media bias in the US. His nomination was confirmed in a Senate note dated March 24, which was referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations. The note officially named him “ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of South Africa.”
Former US President Donald Trump announced the appointment on his social media platform, expressing confidence in Bozell’s capabilities. “Brent is the Founder of the Media Research Center, which has exposed Fake News hypocrites for many years. Brent brings fearless tenacity, extraordinary experience, and vast knowledge to a Nation that desperately needs it. Congratulations Brent!” Trump wrote.
Bozell’s appointment comes at a sensitive time in US-South Africa relations, with diplomatic tensions rising over Pretoria’s stance on global conflicts and its ties with Russia. Analysts suggest that Bozell’s conservative background may influence Washington’s approach toward South Africa, potentially reshaping bilateral relations in the coming months.
The appointment also follows the resignation of Dana Brown, who previously served as the US chargé d’affaires in South Africa. Brown left the State Department last month, and David Greene has since taken over the position temporarily.
With Bozell now stepping into this key role, observers are keen to see how his tenure will impact US-South Africa relations, especially amid ongoing geopolitical shifts.