South Africans criticized President Trump’s proposal to accept Afrikaners as refugees, viewing it as both ridiculous and unfounded. His allegations of land seizure and persecution against Afrikaners drew skepticism and disdain, particularly given South Africa’s apartheid history. Responses varied from disbelief to sarcasm, with many questioning why anyone would want to leave South Africa.
In Johannesburg’s student district, South Africans of various backgrounds reacted to U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposal to accept white Afrikaners as refugees, deeming it both “ridiculous” and “lame.” Trump’s claims that the South African government is seizing white-owned land and persecuting Afrikaners were made without substantial evidence. Following his announcements, Trump halted aid to South Africa, intensifying discontent among locals.
Elon Musk, a South African-born billionaire, has previously endorsed far-right conspiracy theories regarding a supposed “white genocide” in South Africa. Lulusuku Mahlangu, an electrical engineering student, commented, “Trump does not know anything about this,” suggesting that Musk’s influence contributed to Trump’s misguided perceptions. Many South Africans expressed disbelief that whites could be considered victims, especially given the historical context of apartheid.
Responses from individuals like telecommunications expert Lwandle Yende highlighted the absurdity of the situation: “I find it funny because I live here and I do not see that sort of persecution in any way.” Yende stated that the notion of “apartheid 2.0” was nonsensical, while the criticism surrounding a new law allowing property seizure for public interest raised concerns without introducing new governmental powers.
Trump’s offer attracted a mixed reception, including from right-wing white lobby groups, with Reabetswe Mosue describing it as both “uninformed and borderline lame.” Furthermore, the cessation of U.S. funding for South Africa’s HIV program drew criticism from pastor Israel Ntshangase, who remarked, “America has betrayed us by bringing him back.”
The South African government sought to mitigate concerns over Trump’s resettlement suggestion, ironically pointing to the U.S.’s own deportation policies. Many locals questioned why anyone would wish to leave South Africa, with Yende noting that his white friends found the proposal laughable, while tax specialist Matthew Butler expressed skepticism about the practicalities of living in America.
Despite the skepticism, inquiries about resettlement surged, with the South African Chamber of Commerce in the U.S. estimating that 50,000 individuals might contemplate leaving. University lecturer Hannah Maja sarcastically remarked that individuals should pursue fresh opportunities, but film student Clayton Ndlovu suggested the need for Afrikaners remains, stating, “We do need those Afrikaans.” He viewed Trump’s actions as an attempt to instill fear.
The reactions from South Africans to President Trump’s refugee proposal for Afrikaners range from ridicule to concern, underscoring a complicated historical context regarding race relations in the country. Observations on Trump’s unfounded claims have highlighted the absurdity of suggesting victimhood among white South Africans, particularly given the legacy of apartheid and continuing disparities. While some consider relocating in light of Trump’s declarations, many locals view the proposal as impractical or laughable, emphasizing that fears of persecution are overstated in contemporary South Africa.
Original Source: www.france24.com
