Telegram reporting on a U.S. Department of State press briefing outlining American policy toward Rhodesia. The briefing includes responses to questions about Bishop Muzorewa, U.S. recognition policy regarding Rhodesia’s political developments, and mentions Bayard Rustin’s critique of U.S. foreign policy. Rustin expressed concern that U.S. non-recognition of the Muzorewa government risked undermining progress toward democratic reform in Rhodesia and highlighted limitations in the administration’s approach to African liberation movements.
Bayard Rustin’s Role Clarified in U.S. Informal Contacts on Rhodesia
Telegram from a U.S. Department of State press briefing clarifying that Bayard Rustin, along with Al Lowenstein, is not a U.S. government representative but is valued for sharing independent observations from Southern Africa. The briefing emphasized that the U.S. maintains informal contacts with individuals traveling to and from Rhodesia but has not shifted official policy. The U.S. continues to oppose Rhodesian military actions in neighboring countries and urges all parties toward reconciliation through dialogue.
