A diplomatic clash erupted as the G20 summit in South Africa faced mounting challenges, with accusations flying between the White House and President Cyril Ramaphosa. The core of the dispute: Ramaphosa’s assertion that the United States would, after all, participate in the official talks, a claim swiftly and firmly refuted by Washington.
The United States had previously signaled its absence, a decision stemming from concerns over the South African government’s policies and treatment of its citizens. This boycott was joined by other global powers, including Argentina, China, and Russia, raising questions about the summit’s significance and influence.
During a press conference, Ramaphosa optimistically stated he had received notification of a potential change of heart from the US, framing it as a “positive sign” and dismissing the effectiveness of boycott politics. However, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt delivered a sharp rebuke, stating unequivocally that the US would not be engaging in official discussions.
Leavitt didn’t mince words, expressing the President’s displeasure with Ramaphosa’s statements. She emphasized that the US envoy, Marc Dillard, would only be present for the ceremonial handover of the G20 presidency, not for substantive negotiations, despite the South African President’s claims.
The tension escalated further when South African government spokesman Vincent Magwenya announced Ramaphosa would refuse to hand over the presidency to Dillard, citing his lack of full accreditation as Ambassador. This move appeared to be a deliberate act of defiance, deepening the rift between the two nations.
The situation is complicated by the delayed confirmation of Leo Bozell III as the US Ambassador to South Africa. Bozell, during his confirmation hearing, had openly criticized South Africa’s policies, including land expropriation, racial quotas, and a perceived lack of attention to violent farm murders.
Bozell’s prepared statement outlined a clear agenda should he be confirmed: addressing South Africa’s geopolitical alignment, pressing for an end to proceedings against Israel, advocating for the protection of property rights, and offering support to those facing discrimination. His strong stance underscored the depth of the concerns within the US government.
Meanwhile, AfriForum, a civil rights organization representing Afrikaners, has been actively appealing to the international community to acknowledge the persecution faced by the Afrikaner minority. They released a detailed report, “The World Must Know,” and an annual Farm Murder Report, highlighting the violence and insecurity experienced by farmers and landowners.
AfriForum argues that the disregard for property rights and the escalating farm murders have already impacted international relations, directly contributing to the US boycott of the G20 summit. They urge G20 nations to prioritize the protection of property rights and address the issue of farm violence during diplomatic discussions.
The organization warns that the current trajectory in South Africa mirrors the devastating consequences seen in countries like Zimbabwe and Venezuela, where the erosion of property rights led to economic collapse and widespread suffering. They are actively campaigning to convince the South African government to abandon its policy of expropriation without compensation.
AfriForum proposes concrete steps to address the crisis, including a condemnation of the “Kill the Boer” chant, recognition of the brutality of farm murders, prioritization of farm safety, and collaboration between law enforcement and community watch groups. They also call for the repeal of provisions in the Expropriation Act that allow for seizure of property without just compensation and before judicial review.
