South Africa’s diplomatic ties with the U.S. have hit another rough patch, and Minister of Sport, Art, and Culture Gayton McKenzie isn’t holding back.
After former U.S. President Donald Trump made critical comments about South Africa, McKenzie took to social media to respond—seemingly throwing shade at both tech billionaire Elon Musk and the advocacy group AfriForum.
Trump’s Claims Stir Controversy
Trump’s remarks painted South Africa in a negative light, accusing the government of seizing land and mistreating certain groups.
This statement followed his decision to cut USAID funding, which plays a major role in providing antiretroviral treatment for South Africans living with HIV.
In response, McKenzie called on President Cyril Ramaphosa and the nation to prioritize good relations with the U.S.
However, his main frustration seemed directed at those who, in his view, were pushing a false narrative about South Africa.
McKenzie Slams ‘Traitors’
In a series of tweets, McKenzie urged South Africans to stop spreading misinformation, which many believe was aimed at AfriForum and Musk.
He emphasized that white landowners still hold the majority of land in South Africa and that no forceful land grabs are happening.
“Let’s make peace with our biggest trading partner,” he tweeted.
“Some people pretend to be patriots, but they are actually traitors spreading lies.
Arrogance will make us pay a heavy price.”
He also called out AfriForum for allegedly encouraging U.S. sanctions against South Africa, warning that such actions could severely hurt farmers and exporters.
“AfriForum, enjoy basking in the fake sun,” he wrote.
“If the U.S. government takes action, the economic consequences will be devastating. You know very well that no land is being taken by force.”
Musk’s Influence Under Scrutiny
Meanwhile, many South Africans believe that Elon Musk may have played a role in shaping Trump’s views on the country.
Musk, who was born in Pretoria, has been vocal about his concerns regarding race relations in South Africa.
In the past, he has accused the government of pushing for the “genocide of white people” and criticized laws like the Expropriation Act and Black Economic Empowerment (BEE), which he claims have prevented his company, Starlink, from operating in the country.
After Trump’s latest comments, South Africans took to social media to call Musk out for allegedly spreading misinformation about the country.
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