Faith Nyasuguta
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has sharply criticized a group of about 49 white South Africans, predominantly Afrikaners, who recently relocated to the United States under refugee status granted by President Donald Trump. Ramaphosa labeled their departure as a “cowardly act,” asserting that they are unwilling to participate in the nation’s efforts to address historical injustices and build a more equitable society.
Speaking at an agricultural exhibition in the Free State province, Ramaphosa emphasized the resilience of South Africans, stating, “We don’t run away from our problems. We must stay here and solve our problems. When you run away, you are a coward.” He expressed confidence that those who left would eventually return, saying, “I can bet you that they will be back soon because there is no country like South Africa.”
The Afrikaners’ relocation follows the Trump administration’s decision to grant them refugee status, citing alleged racial discrimination and violence in South Africa. Upon arrival at Dulles International Airport, the group was welcomed by U.S. officials, including Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau, who described them as having lived “under a shadow of violence and terror” in their home country.
However, Ramaphosa and South African authorities have dismissed claims of targeted persecution against white South Africans. They argue that while crime is a significant issue in the country, it affects all citizens regardless of race. The president highlighted that the departing individuals are a “fringe group” opposed to the nation’s transformation efforts aimed at rectifying the inequalities of the apartheid era.
The Trump administration’s decision has sparked controversy, particularly given its broader restrictive stance on immigration and refugee admissions. Critics argue that the preferential treatment of white South Africans contrasts sharply with the administration’s policies toward refugees from other regions, such as Haiti and Venezuela. Religious organizations, including the Episcopal Church, have protested the move, citing concerns over racial bias and double standards in refugee resettlement policies.
In response to the situation, Ramaphosa conveyed to Trump during a phone call that the U.S. assessment of the conditions in South Africa was “not true.” He emphasized that South Africa is unique in that it has not expelled its colonizers and is committed to building a united nation. Ramaphosa also stated that the individuals who left do not fit the traditional definition of refugees, as they are not fleeing political, religious, or economic persecution.
The South African government maintains that its land reform policies, including legislation allowing for land expropriation without compensation under specific circumstances, are constitutional and aimed at addressing historical land ownership disparities. These policies have been a point of contention, with critics like Trump and Elon Musk alleging that they amount to discrimination against white farmers, a claim that South African officials and human rights organizations have refuted.
As the debate continues, the South African government remains steadfast in its commitment to transformation and reconciliation. Ramaphosa’s remarks underscore a broader national discourse on identity, belonging, and the challenges of addressing past injustices while fostering unity in a diverse society.
RELATED:
