Leaders worldwide are increasingly concerned as the geographical spread of US President Donald Trump’s pronouncements widens.
Day 14 of the Trump presidency saw threats of a global trade war and news of the likely demise of USAID, the US international aid and development agency.
Trump also took to his Truth Social website to complain about “South Africa confiscating land” and the mistreatment of “certain classes of People.” He vowed to halt all future funding to the country until a thorough investigation is conducted.
So, what is the actual situation unfolding?
Mr. Trump is reviving a far-right narrative alleging marginalization and “genocide” against white people in South Africa by the black majority.
One example cited is a recent bill signed by President Cyril Ramaphosa allowing land expropriation without compensation to address the legacy of white minority rule under apartheid.
Donald Trump has threatened to cut off funding to South Africa over a new law. Pic: Reuters
Three decades after Nelson Mandela ushered in the democratic era, white farmers still dominate land ownership in South Africa. The new law restricts land expropriation to situations deemed “just and equitable” and in the public interest.
The debate on land ownership in South Africa also highlights the influence of South Africa-born billionaire Elon Musk on Trump’s views.