Originally Syndicated on July 21, 2023 @ 4:57 pm
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Cape Town’s Mayor Urges the government to deny entry
Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has urged the South African government to deny entry to a Russian billionaire Alexie Mordashov‘s megayacht, warning that allowing it to dock in the country could lead to sanctions.
Close Ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin
Steel and mining tycoon Alexei Mordashov is known to be close to Russian President Vladimir Putin. In response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the U.S., European Union, and their allies have been targeting Russian oligarchs affiliated with Putin, seizing their properties and assets.
The Arrival of Megayacht Nord
The $500 million megayacht Nord, owned by Alexei Mordashov, departed from Hong Kong after being accused of offering a haven to individuals under international sanctions. The yacht is expected to arrive in South Africa on November 8 or 9, with its specific docking location yet to be confirmed. Cape Town’s port is a potential choice, as it has the necessary expertise to maintain such a vessel.
Mayor Hill-Lewis Voices opposition
Mayor Hill-Lewis, a member of the Democratic Alliance opposition party that controls Cape Town municipality, criticized the South African government’s lack of action regarding the Russian invasion of Ukraine. He described their stance as “spineless and embarrassing” and believed they had an opportunity to stand up for international law by refusing entry to Mordashov‘s yacht.
Standing up Against Putin’s Regime
Hill-Lewis expressed strong objections to allowing Mordashov‘s yacht to dock in South Africa, stating that it would enable Putin’s regime and its actions in Ukraine. He emphasized the need for South Africa to uphold its principles and not offer a safe harbour to individuals associated with international crimes.
South Africa’s Reluctance to Condemn Russia’s Actions
South Africa has refrained from voting in favour of United Nations resolutions condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This stance has raised concerns about the country’s commitment to international efforts to address the conflict.
South Africa’s Official Response
South Africa’s ambassador to the United Nations, Mathu Joyini, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to resolving conflicts through dialogue, mediation, and diplomacy. The recent vote at the UN reflected the country’s belief in peaceful resolutions.
Presidential Spokesperson on Alexei Mordashov’s Yacht
Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya addressed concerns about Mordashov’s yacht during a media briefing. He made it clear that only United Nations-imposed sanctions are subject to South Africa’s obligations. As there are no current UN sanctions against Mordashov, the country has no legal grounds to prevent his entry.
Political Analyst’s Perspective
Brooks Spector, a political analyst and associate editor of The Daily Maverick, disagreed with the South African government’s neutral stance on the issue. He suggested that the government should have demanded proof that the yacht had no connections to the war effort or any other transgressions before granting entry.
Challenging South Africa’s Neutrality
The government’s decision to maintain a neutral stance on the issue has raised concerns about its reputation on the international stage. Critics argue that South Africa should take a firmer stance against Russia’s actions in Ukraine and scrutinize the entry of individuals associated with Putin’s regime.
In conclusion, Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis’s call to deny entry to Russian billionaire Alexei Mordashov’s megayacht has put pressure on the South African government. The yacht’s impending arrival has raised concerns about South Africa’s commitment to international law and its stance on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. While the government maintains its neutral position, critics argue that it should take a stronger stance against Putin’s regime to protect its reputation in the global community. The situation remains tense as South Africa grapples with the complex geopolitical dynamics surrounding the yacht’s entry.
