Fikile Mbalula Visits Moscow to Discuss Combating Western 'Neocolonialism'

ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula is set to lead a South African delegation to Moscow this week to participate in a forum organized by United Russia, the party associated with President Vladimir Putin. The event, scheduled for February 15-17, is focused on countering what is perceived as neocolonialism by Western nations and will be working towards establishing a new structure for confronting this issue.

This initiative is seen as a direct response to global power imbalances that many perceive as continuing the legacy of colonialism. The forum's structure will be debated and is proposed to be headed by Dmitry Medvedev, Russia's Security Council deputy chairman. Participants in the initial November 2023 organizing meeting hailed from diverse countries across the Global South, indicating a broad consensus on the need to address the influence wielded by former colonial powers.

The concerns discussed in Moscow reflect a wider unease with current international dynamics, where institutions such as the United Nations are deemed insufficient in leveling the playing field between nations. According to the gathering's concept note, mechanisms of modern subordination have evolved into systems inflicting abusive relationships and ethnocide, facilitated by credit dependence and the unilateral imposition of sanctions that sidestep the United Nations Security Council.

The proposed forum intends to foster a political system that promotes secure, stable, and just global relations, upholding the principles of non-interference and respect for diverse cultural identities. To translate these ideals into concrete strategies, the forum will develop a program for its founding event, build participant lists, and prepare key documents guiding its future operations. It will make decisions through consensus, with technical matters resolved by majority votes.

The gathering in Moscow could have significant political ramifications. Relations between South Africa and the United States are already strained due to differences over Russia's actions in Ukraine and South Africa's support for Palestine. Any alignment with a Russia-led anti-neocolonialism initiative is likely to exacerbate tensions and could affect bilateral ties, including trade under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa).

South Africa's actions on the international stage, including its appeal to the International Court of Justice over alleged genocide in Gaza, have spotlighted its global policy stances that are increasingly at odds with Western allies. This divergence comes at a time when the US House of Representatives is considering legislation to re-evaluate the US-South Africa relationship, a move that could bear significant consequences for South Africa.

ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa has acknowledged potential repercussions from the international community, including possible influence on South Africa's domestic politics and electoral outcomes. The ruling party seems prepared for any fallout, regarding its actions as driven by principle and conscience. In the face of possible 'fightback campaigns,' the ANC appears steadfast in its commitment to what it perceives as a just international order and is actively seeking alliances to reinforce this position globally.