The United States reportedly denied a diplomatic visa to Mcebisi Jonas, President Cyril Ramaphosa's special envoy to the United States, in May 2025. The Democratic Alliance (DA) has publicly accused the South African government and President Ramaphosa of downplaying the visa rejection and the subsequent refusal by Washington to recognize Jonas's credentials, which would prevent him from performing his duties in the US. DA spokesperson Emma Powell stated that the US informed Pretoria of its decision in May and called on the president to address the matter with the nation. The South African Presidency has condemned the DA's allegations, labeling them as harassment and disinformation that undermine national interests and diplomatic relations. The Presidency has urged South Africans not to treat the DA's claims as official government policy, emphasizing concerns over the opposition's persistent campaign against the appointment of Jonas as special envoy. ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula declined to comment on the issue, stating that it is a government responsibility. The dispute has resulted in a public spat between the DA and the Presidency over Jonas's status and the handling of diplomatic relations with the United States.