In a recent statement, President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed strong disapproval of a group of 59 white South Africans, primarily Afrikaners, who have relocated to the United States. Referring to their decision as an act of cowardice, Ramaphosa asserted that they would likely return to South Africa soon, emphasizing the resilience of the nation's people.
The group arrived in the US on Monday after being granted refugee status by former President Donald Trump, who claimed that they were fleeing from racial discrimination in South Africa. However, Ramaphosa countered this narrative, suggesting that their departure was indicative of dissatisfaction with ongoing efforts to rectify the injustices of the apartheid era. He described their relocation as a "sad moment," reinforcing his belief that South Africans should confront their challenges rather than flee from them.
During a speech, Ramaphosa declared, "As South Africans, we are resilient. We don't run away from our problems. We must stay here and solve our problems." He further labeled their decision to leave as "cowardly," adding, "I can bet you that they will be back soon because there is no country like South Africa." His comments sparked outrage on social media, with many users perceiving them as an insult to the aggrieved white South African community.
Trump, alongside his ally Elon Musk, has alleged that there is a "genocide" of white farmers occurring in South Africa, a claim that has been widely criticized and discredited. The United States government has also accused the South African administration of expropriating land from white farmers without compensation. Despite the end of apartheid over 30 years ago, the distribution of land remains heavily skewed, with black farmers owning only a small fraction of the country's prime agricultural land, which continues to fuel tensions over the slow pace of reform.
In January, President Ramaphosa signed a contentious law permitting the government to seize privately owned land without compensation under certain conditions deemed equitable and in the public interest. However, Ramaphosa clarified that, as of now, no land has been seized under this new legislation.
As the group of Afrikaners arrived in the US, they were met with a warm welcome from high-ranking US officials, who reiterated claims of their having lived under persistent violence and fear in South Africa. Deputy Secretary of State Chris Landau greeted them at Dulles Airport, declaring, "Welcome to the land of the free." Some members of the group were seen holding young children and waving American flags, highlighting the mixed emotions surrounding their relocation.
Earlier on the same day, during an Africa CEO Forum in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, Ramaphosa disclosed that he had previously communicated with Trump about the situation, asserting that the US's assessment was inaccurate. He reaffirmed that South Africa is unique in its history, stating, "We're the only country on the continent where the colonizers came to stay and we have never driven them out of our country." He also emphasized that the departing white South Africans do not meet the criteria for refugees.
Looking ahead, Ramaphosa indicated that he is scheduled to meet with Trump soon to further discuss this contentious issue. Tensions remain high, particularly as Trump has threatened to boycott the upcoming G20 summit in South Africa if the situation is not adequately addressed. The dialogue between the two leaders will be crucial in shaping future relations and policies between South Africa and the United States.
