Political parties largely support Cuba’s call for SA to mobilise against US-imposed sanctions

Political parties in Parliament have largely backed Cuba’s request for South Africa to mobilise international support to lift US sanctions. However, the Democratic Alliance (DA) walked out of a meeting of Parliament’s International Relations Committee, citing that South Africa’s partnerships with Cuba have brought minimal benefit. The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) urged the government to fully support Cuba, even if it risks US sanctions against South Africa. EFF MP Nqobile Mhlongo emphasized continuing trade and education ties with Cuba and appealed for government assistance to address fuel shortages. She was supported by uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party member Wesley Douglas, who condemned the US blockade as a human rights violation and called for accelerated financial support from the African Renaissance Fund. DA member Ryan Smith argued that South Africa’s exports to Cuba are negligible (0.3% of total exports) and that loans to Cuba could better fund domestic needs. Committee chair Supra Mahumapelo suggested writing off a new loan to Cuba, but the Government of National Unity (GNU) opposed this.