Emma Powell Steps Down as DA’s International Relations Spokesperson

Natalie Nyathi

Emma Powell has stepped down from her role as the Democratic Alliance’s (DA) spokesperson on International Relations. The resignation follows allegations that she spread disinformation about the South African government during a trip to the United States. Powell cited harassment, threats, and intimidation as factors influencing her decision, according to a statement posted on her X account.

Powell had served as the party’s spokesperson on international relations for over two years, having traveled the world on behalf of the DA. She stated that she accepted the risks associated with “standing up to and exposing DIRCO (Department of International Relations and Cooperation) and the ANC’s relationships with authoritarian regimes.”

The DA has announced that Ryan Smith, Powell’s former deputy, will take over as the new spokesperson on international relations and cooperation. DA chief whip George Michalakis thanked Powell for her service and indicated that she would be assigned to a new portfolio soon.

Powell’s resignation comes after a controversial DA delegation trip to Washington, D.C., in March, which included Andrew Whitfield, a former deputy minister of trade, industry, and competition. President Cyril Ramaphosa subsequently fired Whitfield for undertaking the trip without informing him. The DA defended the visit, stating that it aimed to strengthen relations between South Africa and the United States.

Powell will retain her seat in Parliament.