The South African government has insisted it will not engage in public confrontation with the US following President Donald Trump’s recent comments on land expropriation.
Trump recently took to social media to accuse South Africa of seizing land from white farmers, claim discrimination and call for those affected to seek asylum in the US. His claims come after President Cyril Ramaphosa introduced the Expropriation Bill earlier this year, which outlines a legal framework for land redistribution in the public interest.
Land ownership remains a sensitive issue in South Africa, with the majority of privately owned farmland remaining in white hands even decades after the end of apartheid. Trump’s administration issued an executive order in February halting aid to South Africa, citing allegations of mistreatment of the white Afrikaner minority. The former US president also announced measures to fast-track citizenship for South African farmers seeking to relocate.
Despite these developments, the South African government has reiterated its commitment to a constructive and balanced relationship with the United States. Presidential spokesman Vincent Magwenya said diplomatic engagement remains a priority but must be based on mutual respect and recognition of South Africa’s sovereignty.
“We are committed to a mutually beneficial trade, political and diplomatic relationship with the United States, particularly under the Trump administration. However, this must be based on mutual respect and recognition of our independence,” Magwenya said.
The South African government maintains that Trump’s interpretation of the Expropriation Act is flawed and insists that land reform is being carried out in accordance with the law and constitutional principles.