South Africa's ANC National Chair, Gwede Mantashe, has reaffirmed the country’s sovereignty amidst heated discussions with the US regarding race relations and controversial land expropriation laws. Mantashe criticized citizens seeking US asylum and reiterated the government's stance on land access, even as diplomatic efforts continue to manage escalating tensions.
ANC Chair Defends South Africa's Sovereignty Amidst Rising US Strains
ANC Chair Defends South Africa's Sovereignty Amidst Rising US Strains
Gwede Mantashe emphasizes South Africa's independence in light of tensions surrounding new land laws and US President Trump's remarks.
South Africa's ruling ANC party is standing firm on its sovereignty amidst escalating tensions with the United States over new land reform legislation viewed unfavorably by US officials. ANC National Chair, Gwede Mantashe, proclaimed, "We are a free country, we're a sovereign country. We're not a province of the United States and that sovereignty will be defended," underscoring a growing sentiment amongst South Africans against perceived foreign interference.
These remarks follow US President Donald Trump's executive order earlier this year that condemned South Africa's expropriation law, which enables the government to seize land without compensation under specific conditions. This law has drawn international scrutiny as it is thought to target primarily ethnic minority Afrikaners. President Cyril Ramaphosa has asserted that the law aims to ensure equitable access to land for all citizens.
In a striking twist, Trump's executive order also offered the potential for affected Afrikaners to resettle in the US, which Mantashe vehemently condemned. He articulated concern over South African citizens who have called for external punishment against their own country, suggesting those seeking refuge should accept Trump's offer outright.
On top of this escalating rhetoric, tech mogul Elon Musk sparked further discourse by labeling South Africa's ownership laws as “racist”, inciting backlash given that white South Africans—once the beneficiaries of apartheid—still disproportionately hold land and wealth in the country.
In a bid to de-escalate the situation, South Africa appointed a designated envoy, Mcebisi Jonas, earlier this month to bolster diplomatic efforts with Washington, as tensions simmer following the expulsion of South Africa's ambassador, Ebrahim Rasool, after he accused Trump of employing divisive political strategies. As diplomatic channels remain critical, the unfolding situations will likely assess not only the bilateral relationship with the US but also the internal unity of South Africa itself.
