The South African government has strongly dismissed claims by former U.S. President Donald Trump that it is confiscating land and mistreating certain groups, calling the accusations misleading and uninformed.
“The South African government has not confiscated any land,” President Cyril Ramaphosa said in a statement on Monday, emphasizing that the country’s recently adopted Expropriation Act follows a legal and constitutional process aimed at ensuring equitable land access.
Trump Threatens to Cut U.S. Funding
Trump’s remarks, posted on Truth Social on Sunday, alleged that South Africa was engaging in a “massive human rights violation” through land confiscation and discrimination, adding that the U.S. would halt funding to the country pending an investigation.
However, Ramaphosa downplayed the threat, stating that South Africa only receives U.S. funding for HIV/AIDS prevention programs and no other direct financial assistance.
Expropriation Act: Reforming Apartheid-Era Land Laws
The Expropriation Bill, signed into law last month, replaces the 1975 apartheid-era legislation and outlines the legal framework for land expropriation in the public interest, including compensation provisions.
“South Africa, like the U.S. and many other nations, has expropriation laws that balance public needs with property rights,” Ramaphosa said, urging for dialogue with Washington to ensure mutual understanding on South Africa’s land policies.
South Africa Calls for Constructive Dialogue
Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola encouraged Trump’s advisors to use this “investigative period” to better understand South Africa’s constitutional democracy and land policies.
“Such insights will ensure a respectful and informed approach to our democratic commitments,” he stated.
Ramaphosa has previously criticized fringe groups lobbying the U.S. with claims that white South Africans are under threat, arguing that South Africa has long moved beyond racial divisions.
Despite Trump’s remarks, Pretoria reiterated that the U.S. remains a key strategic trade and political partner, and South Africa is open to discussions to clarify its policies.
