Minister Naledi Pandor reflects on Robert Mugabe’s legacy

The recent events unfolding in South Africa have brought to light the complex dynamics between the country and its African neighbors, particularly Nigeria. Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Naledi Pandor, sat down with CNBC Africa's Chris Bishop to discuss the current situation and the government's response to the challenges facing the nation. In the wake of the closure of the South African Embassy in Nigeria, Minister Pandor emphasized the importance of maintaining strong diplomatic ties between the two nations. She expressed her intention to reach out to her Nigerian counterpart to discuss ways to reinforce the relationship and address any misunderstandings that may have arisen. One of the key issues at hand is the recent spate of violence and looting targeted at foreign nationals, including Nigerians, in South Africa. Minister Pandor refuted the idea of a Nigeria-South Africa conflict, highlighting that some of the affected shops belonged to South Africans themselves. She underscored the need for law enforcement to swiftly address the criminal activities and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. Furthermore, Minister Pandor addressed the concerns surrounding the compensation for victims of the attacks. She clarified that it is not the government's role to provide compensation for such incidents. Instead, the focus remains on upholding the rule of law, arresting perpetrators, and ensuring they face legal consequences for their actions. Regarding President Cyril Ramaphosa's response to the crisis, Minister Pandor defended the government's actions, noting that while the President did speak out against the violence, it is essential to allow the relevant agencies, such as the police, to handle such matters effectively. Looking ahead, Minister Pandor confirmed President Muhammadu Buhari's upcoming visit to South Africa on October 3rd. She emphasized the importance of such high-level engagements in fostering cooperation and understanding between the two countries. The Minister stressed that leaders play a crucial role in setting a positive example and working towards African unity. As discussions between Nigeria and South Africa continue, Minister Pandor remained optimistic about the prospects of collaboration in addressing shared challenges. While acknowledging the need for mutual cooperation, she urged both countries to respect each other's sovereignty and legal frameworks. In conclusion, Minister Naledi Pandor's remarks underscored the significance of diplomacy and collaboration in navigating the complex interplay of regional relations. Amidst the current tensions, her call for unity, rationality, and adherence to the rule of law serves as a beacon for fostering constructive dialogue and finding lasting solutions to the challenges at hand.