Ramaphosa Criticizes Refugees Amid U.S. Flight Approvals
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned Africans seeking refuge in the United States, labeling their departure as a sign of “co-disease,” suggesting a shared ailment of societal issues including racism and concerns over expropriation.
This statement came shortly after Ramaphosa’s arrival in Washington, D.C., coinciding with the approval of refugee status for 49 white Africans, with another 70,000 set to apply under new policies.
On the upcoming agenda, Ramaphosa aims to present himself as a moderate voice. He is scheduled to discuss matters with President Donald Trump later this month. This is part of his efforts to reshape perceptions about his government—especially in light of a new expropriation law that allows for property seizure without compensation, introduced earlier this year.
In his remarks, Ramaphosa emphasized:
While some may feel relieved to leave South Africa and take refuge under President Trump, I believe they have misjudged the changes happening here. Those who are fleeing are not facing the discipline needed to tackle our issues, and it raises questions about their commitment to our nation. It’s essential for us to confront our challenges together instead of running away.
Transformation, in this context, refers to efforts aimed at redistributing wealth across racial lines, often enforced through legal means.
This recent address marks a stronger stance from Ramaphosa, who had previously downplayed the significance of refugees, suggesting they are merely looking to return to an apartheid-like status rather than embracing the changes his party supports.
Kallie Kriel, CEO of Afriforum, issued a critical response on social media, representing the Afrikaner perspective. Ramaphosa has continuously asserted that misinformation from a small group of South Africans has influenced how Trump views the situation in South Africa.
Despite political leaders in South Africa openly discussing extreme measures against fellow Africans, accusations of “genocide” have emerged from Trump’s comments, alleging this reality is being overlooked by mainstream media.
As investigations continue into South African leaders potentially spreading these claims of misinformation in the U.S., Ramaphosa is preparing for his upcoming face-to-face meeting with Trump next week.
