Former International Relations minister Naledi Pandor has had her United States (US) visa revoked, an unexpected development that surfaced as world leaders gathered in Johannesburg for the G20.
The timing coincided with shifts in Washington’s approach to the summit, which it had initially resisted before engaging in late diplomatic discussions.
According to reports, the former minister received an email from the US Consulate in Cape Town earlier this week informing her that the visitor’s visa issued to her in 2024 was no longer valid.
She said no explanation accompanied the notice.
Pandor had travelled to the US twice in 2025, including her most recent visit completed days before the revocation.
She told EWN she had “no idea” what may have influenced the decision but was aware of a lobby that had been writing to US authorities in an attempt to block her entry.
Among those who have contacted the US government is attorney and former member of the South African Jewish Board of Deputies, Lawrence Nowosenetz, who has accused her of aligning with pro-Palestinian governments during her tenure.
Since leaving Cabinet in 2024, Pandor has remained active in international advocacy work and currently chairs the Nelson Mandela Foundation.
Her engagements this year have included addressing the United Nations on International Nelson Mandela Day in July, where she reflected on Mandela’s legacy and the global pursuit of justice.
She has also met periodically with Justice for All, an organisation focused on the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
The revocation occurred during a week in which Johannesburg is hosting the G20 summit, drawing global attention as leaders arrive for high-level talks.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer landed in the city on Friday ahead of the formal opening, while US President Donald Trump chose not to attend, citing unfounded claims regarding the treatment of white South Africans.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa described the US absence as “their loss.”
Pandor has previously commented on shifts within US political culture, including remarks delivered at the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection in September in which she noted changes in the country’s global posture.
Her comments formed part of wider discussions on geopolitical developments and their implications for South Africa’s diplomacy.
For now, Pandor has not decided whether she will apply for a new visa.
She told EWN she is still considering whether there is merit in undergoing another interview, adding that she does not know what the process would entail.
The US government has not issued a public explanation for the revocation.
