The African National Congress (ANC) condemns in the strongest possible terms the false, inflammatory, and racially charged remarks made by U.S. President Donald Trump about South Africa. His unfounded claims of “genocide” and “persecution” of white South Africans, together with his boycott of the upcoming G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg, are part of a long and disgraceful pattern of imperial arrogance and disinformation. These statements are not borne of ignorance, they are deliberate attempts to distort the reality of South Africa’s democracy and to mobilise racial fear for political gain in the United States.
South Africa is a sovereign and constitutional democracy governed by the rule of law. We are committed to upholding the rights, safety and dignity of all our citizens while continuing the difficult but necessary work of redressing the injustices of our past. Our democratic institutions are strong, independent, and rooted in the will of the people, not in the approval or interference of any foreign power. The ANC rejects with contempt any insinuation that our country’s transformation agenda is driven by racial disposition.
In hosting the G20 Leaders’ Summit under the theme “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability,” South Africa demonstrates its leadership, vision, and commitment to global cooperation. This historic gathering represents Africa’s voice on the world stage and is focused on the pressing challenges of debt relief, development, climate justice, and equitable trade. The success of the summit will not be defined by who refuses to attend, but by the shared determination of nations that believe in multilateralism based on respect and equality among peoples.
Donald Trump’s continued siding with racist and right-wing movements across the world is welldocumented and consistent with his dangerous rhetoric. From defending white supremacists at Charlottesville to vilifying African nations as “shithole countries,” his record speaks of a man driven by prejudice, not principle.
His latest comments on South Africa are an extension of this worldview, one that sees African progress as a threat. The ANC will not allow such divisive and regressive ideology to define Africa’s image or dictate its future.
The ANC calls on progressive forces across the world to reject the revival of colonial tropes and to stand in solidarity with Africa’s right to self-determination. We will not be bullied, defined, or distracted by imperial nostalgia masquerading as concern. Our democracy was built through struggle and sacrifice, and it will continue to flourish guided by the will of our people and the enduring values of justice, equality, and sovereignty.
