South African President Critiques Afrikaner Lobby Group’s Washington Visit
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa criticized the Afrikaner lobby group AfriForum for meeting U.S. officials at the White House, following President Trump’s executive order halting aid to South Africa. Ramaphosa emphasized the need for domestic resolutions rather than external interference, while AfriForum maintains that the Afrikaner community is under threat. The situation raises concerns about misinformation and its impact on diplomatic relations.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed strong disapproval of a recent visit by the Afrikaner lobby group AfriForum to the White House amid growing tensions with the Trump administration. The delegation met with U.S. officials following President Trump’s executive order halting aid to South Africa, citing human rights violations against the white minority.
President Trump has made contentious claims regarding land seizures from white farmers under the Expropriation Act and has criticized South Africa’s case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. In light of this, he has suggested that the lobby group be granted refugee status in the United States.
AfriForum has publicly asserted that the Afrikaner community faces significant threats including violence against farmers and challenging land policies. In a press briefing, Ramaphosa emphasized the need for South Africans to address their issues domestically rather than seeking solutions abroad. “That is not a nation-building process of running around the world to try and have your problems solved, you are just sowing divisions,” he stated.
The interactions of the lobby group have surfaced during reports of South African diplomats struggling to engage with key U.S. officials. Notably, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent did not attend recent important meetings in South Africa.
Criticism of AfriForum has been articulated by various political groups in South Africa, labeling their actions as reckless and harmful to the nation. The group’s CEO Kallie Kriel countered these allegations, stating that it is the actions of President Ramaphosa and his administration that contribute to division. Kriel noted, “It’s President Ramaphosa that signed the Expropriation Act.”
The ongoing dispute has prompted ex-President Jacob Zuma’s party to file a treason complaint against AfriForum, accusing them of spreading misinformation that may influence U.S. relations with South Africa.
In conclusion, President Ramaphosa’s condemnation of AfriForum’s visit to the White House highlights the escalating tensions between South Africa and the Trump administration. Despite claims of victimization by the Afrikaner community, Ramaphosa promotes an approach focused on resolving domestic issues. The situation underscores the complexities of South African politics and international relations amidst allegations of manipulation and misinformation.
Original Source: apnews.com
