Reuben E. Brigety II, the United States Ambassador to South Africa, has announced his resignation, effective January 10, 2025, following the election victory of Donald Trump.
In a statement released on Monday, Brigety confirmed his decision to step down, stating that his resignation is in line with the standard procedure that occurs when there is a change in the U.S. presidential administration.
“I informed the Government of South Africa that I will resign as the U.S. Ambassador to South Africa effective January 10, 2025,” Brigety wrote. “This is in accordance with the standard procedure during a change of presidential administration.”
Brigety, who has served in his role for several years, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to represent the United States in South Africa.
“Serving in this role and fostering the strong relationship between the United States and South Africa has been an immense honor,” Brigety said.
Ambassadors are typically appointed by the sitting president and serve at the pleasure of that president. With Trump’s victory in the recent election, Brigety’s decision to resign follows the tradition of U.S. ambassadors stepping down when a new president takes office.
The U.S. Ambassador also took a moment to reflect on the progress made during his tenure, highlighting key areas of growth in the partnership between the two nations.
“During my tenure, we have witnessed remarkable progress in the U.S.-South Africa partnership,” Brigety noted. He specifically pointed out achievements in various fields, including trade, global health, and cultural exchanges.
Brigety also thanked the South African government and the people of the country for their warm hospitality throughout his time as Ambassador.
“I express my profound gratitude to the Government and people of South Africa for their warm hospitality and unwavering partnership,” he said.
The U.S. ambassador acknowledged the efforts of his team at the U.S. Mission in South Africa, recognizing their hard work in advancing the interests of both countries.
“To my U.S. Mission team, thank you for continuing to advance our mutual interests and cultivating an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported,” Brigety said.
His statement emphasized his belief that the U.S.-South Africa relationship would continue to thrive long after his departure.
“I know the Mission will continue to deepen the U.S.-South Africa relationship and it will flourish thanks to the strong foundations we’ve built together,” Brigety added.
Brigety’s decision to step down comes at a time when the U.S. is undergoing a significant political shift. With Donald Trump’s win, the U.S. government is preparing for a new direction under his leadership, and Brigety’s resignation is part of the broader transition.
In his statement, Brigety made it clear that he respected the democratic process that led to Trump’s victory. He acknowledged the importance of democracy in shaping the future of the United States, even as it led to his own resignation.
“The American people have expressed their choice for the future direction of our country, reflecting our shared commitment to democratic principles,” Brigety said.
Brigety’s tenure in South Africa has been marked by a number of successful initiatives aimed at strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations. Under his leadership, the U.S. has worked to foster stronger diplomatic, economic, and cultural exchanges with South Africa.
The partnership between the United States and South Africa has been essential in addressing global health challenges, expanding trade relations, and supporting cultural understanding. Brigety’s leadership helped facilitate numerous collaborations in these areas, making a lasting impact on the relationship.
While his resignation marks the end of his time in South Africa, Brigety made it clear that he believes the work done during his tenure will continue to have a positive effect on U.S.-South Africa relations.
“This is not just a goodbye, but a celebration of the shared progress we have made,” Brigety concluded in his statement. “I am confident that the strong foundation we have laid together will continue to benefit both our nations for years to come.”
Brigety’s resignation is expected to take effect in January, with a new U.S. Ambassador likely to be appointed under the Trump administration. The decision to resign is in keeping with the tradition of diplomatic personnel stepping down at the beginning of a new presidential term.
