South Africa expels Malawi diplomats

Malawi Government has confirmed about the expulsion of Malawian diplomats serving in South Africa on a conduct of abusing their diplomatic privileges.

In a statement, the South African Department of International Relations and Cooperation said several diplomats have been declared Persona Non-Grata following a rigorous enquiry.

“The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) 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.

“The said diplomats were found guilty of engaging in illicit trade in duty-free alcohol,” reads the statement in part.

Pretoria says the decision has been 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,” said the statement.

Pretoria added that it has given the affected diplomatic staff members and their families 72 hours within which they should leave the rainbow nation.

Reacting to the development through a media statement, Foreign Affairs Ministry says the government of Malawi will take appropriate actions on the Diplomats.

“The government of Malawi wishes to inform the Public that the Malawi Government has since conveyed its regret to the Republic of South Africa on the conduct of the concerned diplomats.

“The Government of Malawi will take appropriate actions on the diplomats upon their return,” reads the statement.

The diplomats expelled were those serving at High Commission in Pretoria and the Consulate in Johannesburg.

Apart from Malawian diplomats, Pretoria has also declared persona non grata diplomats from Lesotho on similar conduct of engaging in illicit trade in duty-free alcohol.