The recent visit by Members of Parliament (MPs) from the Democratic Alliance (DA) and the Patriotic Alliance (PA) to Israel has raised more than a few eyebrows across South Africa.
At a time when the international community is deeply divided over Israel’s ongoing actions in Gaza and its treatment of Palestinians, the decision by these South African MPs to meet with Israeli officials—outside the guidance of South Africa’s official foreign policy—demands scrutiny. South Africa’s position on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been clear and consistent.
Rooted in our history of apartheid and oppression, our government, through the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), has stood in solidarity with the Palestinian cause. The recent escalation in Gaza, where thousands of civilians have been killed, has only reinforced this stance. In January 2024, South Africa took the unprecedented step of leading a genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ)—a move widely applauded by human rights activists and nations advocating for justice and international accountability. Against this backdrop, the DA and PA MPs' visit to Israel, whether claimed as a personal or party trip, cannot be brushed aside.
These individuals are not private citizens—they are public representatives who have sworn an oath to uphold the Constitution and represent the interests of South Africa. That oath does not pause during international travel. Their presence in Israel, especially if they engaged with members of the Israeli government, suggests an endorsement—explicit or implicit—of a regime currently under scrutiny for alleged war crimes and violations of international law.
This is not the first time the DA has shown a willingness to deviate from the country’s official foreign policy line. Over the years, the DA has sought to cultivate close ties with Israel, framing it as a democratic ally in the Middle East. What is concerning is the lack of transparency and accountability surrounding these engagements. Are these visits sanctioned or coordinated with DIRCO?
Are there briefings or debriefings afterward? And most importantly, whose interests are being served? The argument that these trips are undertaken in a “personal capacity” is disingenuous. Once elected to public office, particularly in national legislatures, there is no actual “private” visit to another country. Every handshake, every meeting, every statement made abroad reflects on the country these MPs represent. When they meet with foreign officials, they are perceived as representatives of South Africa, regardless of party affiliation.
This is where the issue of sovereignty arises. When foreign governments bypass the national government to engage directly with opposition figures, they risk undermining the democratic process and the sovereignty of the state. It creates a parallel diplomacy, where foreign powers can influence domestic actors in ways that conflict with national policy. South Africa’s foreign policy is not a patchwork of party agendas—it is meant to be coherent, transparent, and conducted through legitimate channels.
Furthermore, the implications for unity and cohesion within Parliament are troubling. While robust debate and differing opinions are hallmarks of a healthy democracy, foreign policy is one area where national interest must take precedence. Rogue diplomacy by opposition MPs threatens to fracture South Africa’s unified voice on the international stage. It sends mixed signals and diminishes our credibility in global forums. This incident should serve as a wake-up call. There is an urgent need for Parliament to review its guidelines on international travel and engagements by MPs.
Clear protocols must be implemented to ensure that all foreign interactions—especially those with governments embroiled in significant international controversies—are done in consultation with DIRCO. This is not about stifling political freedom; it is about maintaining a consistent, principled foreign policy that reflects the values of the South African people. Members of Parliament are entitled to their personal views and political ideologies, but they must not forget the responsibilities that come with public office. Visiting Israel at a time when the international community is grappling with the consequences of its military actions in Gaza is not just ill-timed—it is politically provocative and diplomatically irresponsible.
The people of South Africa deserve representatives who align with our national values, not those who prioritize party interests over principle. It is time for accountability and clarity in how our MPs engage with the world.
* Mayalo is an independent writer, analyst, and commentator
** The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of IOL or Independent Media.