‘There’s more’: Dirco to expel more foreign diplomats in SA
The Department of international relations and co-operation has confirmed that more and more diplomats are going to be expelled from South Africa.
On Thursday, 10 June the Lesotho government confirmed that a number of its diplomats have been expelled from South Africa for failing to comply with the law, specifically the “illicit trade in duty-free alcohol”. The country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Relations expressed its disappointment and embarrassment.
DIRCO CONFIRMS EXPULSION
In a statement released on Friday, 11 June, Dirco said that the Lesotho diplomats were found guilty of engaging in illicit trade in duty-free alcohol.
“This decision was taken in line with the Vienna Convention of 1961. The Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations of 1961 is fundamental to the conduct of foreign relations and ensures that diplomats can conduct their duties without the threat of influence by the host government.
“However, in instances where such privileges are abused, the host country is obliged to take the necessary action in line with the Convention.”
To this end, the government of South Africa has given the affected diplomatic staff members & their families 72 hours within which they should leave SA. They are also expected to relinquish their diplomatic status by returning all the necessary diplomatic tools to DIRCO.
‘INVESTIGATIONS ON FOREIGN DIPLOMATS AT AN ADVANCED STAGE’
Dirco also confirmed that there are investigations of similar transgressions by other missions accredited to South Africa which are at an advanced stage and similar action will be taken should they be found guilty.
“The Department of International Relations and Cooperation wishes to confirm that it has, on behalf of the Republic of South Africa, declared several diplomats Persona Non-Grata following an intensive investigation into their flouting of diplomatic privileges.”
READ: Lesotho diplomats expelled from South Africa for running illegal alcohol ring
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