South Africans mock Trump’s proposal to accept white Afrikaners as refugees, calling it ignorant and absurd. The comments coincide with Trump’s cut on aid to the country, based on unfounded claims of land seizure. While some express a desire to emigrate, there are practical concerns regarding living in America and a general dismissal of Trump’s framing of South Africa’s racial dynamics.
In Johannesburg, South Africans are reacting to President Trump’s recent proposal to accept white Afrikaners as refugees, deeming it both “ridiculous” and “lame.” Trump made headlines after he ceased U.S. aid to South Africa, unfoundedly claiming the government is seizing white-owned land and targeting Afrikaners. Notably, Elon Musk, a South African billionaire and Trump supporter, has previously alluded to conspiracy theories about a supposed “white genocide” in the nation.
Students like Lulusuku Mahlangu express disbelief at Trump’s ignorance, suggesting Musk may be influencing him to look into these unfounded claims. Mahlangu criticizes the greed associated with power and highlights the historical context, where the previous apartheid government, led by Afrikaners, ruled until 1994. Many observe that white individuals enjoying victim status seems absurd given the economic disparities remaining today.
Lwandle Yende, a telecommunications specialist, describes Trump’s comments as “ridiculous, funny and weird,” asserting no visible persecution of whites exists in South Africa. He believes the country has been accommodating to its past and denies the existence of “apartheid 2.0.” Trump’s criticism focuses on a law allowing land expropriation without compensation under specific circumstances, but legal experts clarify that existing powers are being specified, not newly granted.
Reabetswe Mosue, age 22, refers to Trump’s proposal as having “some racist undertones” and considers it uninformed. The proposed discontinuation of U.S. funding could adversely affect significant programs in South Africa, with pastor Israel Ntshangase lamenting America’s historical betrayals regarding the continent. He warns that the implications of Trump’s current stance against South Africa will reverberate negatively for him.
South African officials have responded, noting the irony of Trump’s resettlement proposal given America’s deportation policies. Yende sarcastically questions who would wish to leave such a beautiful environment, and his white friends share laughter over Trump’s claims. Matthew Butler, a tax specialist, echoes concerns about the practicality and cost of living in America despite the supposed benefits of resettlement.
The South African Chamber of Commerce in the U.S. has reported increased interest in relocating, estimating around 50,000 individuals may consider emigration. University lecturer Hannah Maja expresses a nonchalant stance, suggesting that those seeking fresh air should feel free to go. Yet, film student Clayton Ndlovu believes Afrikaners are indeed needed in South Africa, asserting skepticism toward Trump’s motivations, viewing them more as scare tactics than genuine concern.
South Africans overwhelmingly view Trump’s proposals regarding Afrikaner refugees with skepticism and disdain, highlighting ignorance and historical context. Legal experts clarify that the new law on land expropriation merely specifies existing powers, and many see Trump’s actions as unjust. The call for emigration spurred interest but is met with practical concerns regarding life in America. Ultimately, varied perspectives reveal a complex social landscape regarding race and politics in South Africa.
Original Source: www.france24.com
