Resentment as South Africa speaks business for continent

Researchers and experts have warned that there is growing resentment among African nations about the way in which South Africa has set itself up as the mouthpiece for the rest of the continent in its role as a member of key developing nation blocs. South Africa is currently a member of the India, Brazil and South Africa (IBSA) developing nations grouping, as well as the Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) group.

It seems a number of experts think that South Africa is walking a political tightrope, and warn that the country should be wary about overplaying its role as the leading nation of Africa. John Maré, an international relations and trade consultant, argues that many African leaders, both in politics and business, are resentful of South Africa having too great a role in the leadership of Africa. “The manner in which South Africa acts in the BRICS context becomes especially relevant and, given perceptions [outside Africa] that Africa wants South Africa to be its leaders, it will not go down well,” he said.

Original article: http://allafrica.com/stories/201303111843.html?viewall=1