Democratic Alliance (DA) MP Emma Powell has stepped down from her role as the party’s international relations spokesperson, citing ongoing harassment, threats, and intimidation linked to her outspoken stance on South Africa’s foreign policy.
In a statement posted to her X (formerly Twitter) account on Monday, Powell confirmed her resignation, describing a pattern of targeted pressure that has escalated in recent months.
SSA spy claims and political fallout
Her decision follows recent allegations that she had been spied on by the State Security Agency (SSA).
This development further intensified what Powell described as a toxic and dangerous environment for MPs who challenge government narratives.
“Driven by my commitment to the DA’s foundational principles, I accepted these risks as the unavoidable cost of standing up to and exposing the Department of International Relations and the ANC’s relationships with authoritarian regimes,” Powell wrote.
Powell has frequently clashed with the ANC, most recently alleging that President Cyril Ramaphosa’s special envoy, Mcebisi Jonas, was denied a US visa – a claim that was met with sharp rebuke from the ruling party.
Trips abroad stir controversy
Her foreign engagements have drawn criticism from the ANC, which accused Powell of acting against South Africa’s official diplomatic stance.
These included a high-profile visit to the United States in March – a trip linked to the dismissal of DA colleague Andrew Whitfield as a deputy minister – and a sponsored visit to Israel in April, both seen as controversial by senior government figures.
DA responds
The DA confirmed that Ryan Smith, Powell’s former deputy, will now assume the international relations spokesperson role.
DA chief whip George Michalakis thanked Powell for her service, stating she would soon be reassigned to a new portfolio within the party.
“We are grateful for the work she’s done on the international stage and will continue to benefit from her experience in Parliament,” said Michalakis.
Looking ahead
Powell, who has been a DA MP since 2019, said she would remain in parliament to help empower others – particularly women – to lead in politics.
Despite stepping down from the international portfolio, Powell made it clear she will continue speaking out against authoritarianism and advocating for transparent governance.
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