President Cyril Ramaphosa's appointment of former State Security Minister Ayanda Dlodlo as South Africa's ambassador to France has sparked significant political controversy.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) accused the ANC leadership of prioritizing loyalty over competence, citing Dlodlo's past controversies including allegations of suppressing state capture inquiries and a Public Protector investigation into a R1.7 billion broadband tender.

Critics argue that her appointment undermines South Africa's diplomatic integrity, especially given France's strategic importance as a major investor and trade partner.The decision comes amid strained relations between Pretoria and Paris, with South Africa's absence from the recent G7 summit in France.Dlodlo, a former Umkhonto weSizwe cadre, has faced scrutiny over her tenure in government, though she denies wrongdoing.

The DA emphasized that diplomatic roles should be based on merit rather than political allegiance, warning of damage to South Africa's international reputation.