SA backs UN boss sidelined by Israel

Government has confirmed being part of a core group of countries that fully support UN Secretary-General António Guterres. News24 reports that according to a joint letter sent by the Chilean Government to the UN, dated 10 October, SA, Brazil, Colombia, Uganda, Indonesia, Spain, Guyana and Mexico have expressed their deep concern over Israel's decision to declare Guterres persona non grata, as well as the country's attempts to undermine the work of the UN. ‘In our view, such actions undermine the United Nations' ability to carry out its mandate, which includes mediating conflicts and providing humanitarian support,’ the letter reads. ‘The letter is signed by members of the broader United Nations membership, reflecting a wide and collective support across the international community. We reaffirm our full support and confidence in your work as the Secretary-General.’ Department of International Relations & Co-operation (Dirco) spokesperson Chrispin Phiri confirmed the veracity of the letter. Pretoria's stance on the matter does not come as a surprise. On 2 October, Dirco released a statement wherein it ‘noted with dismay’ that Guterres had been declared persona non grata. ‘SA calls on the international community to commit to upholding International Law, International Humanitarian Law, Human Rights Law and the purposes and principals (sic) of the United Nations Charter to maintain international peace and security for all, without prejudice or favour,’ the department said at the time. In the letter addressed to Guterres and the deputy president of the UN General Assembly, Philémon Yang, the countries stated that they were confident of the UN's commitment to peace and security and its alignment with international law, including promoting respect for international humanitarian law and the relevant United Nations resolutions regarding the situation in the Middle East.