The South African government has once again asserted its sovereignty in response to pressure from the Trump administration following the arrest and deportation of seven Kenyan nationals in Johannesburg. The individuals were found working unlawfully while processing refugee applications for white Afrikaners seeking relocation to the U.S., linked to claims of racial persecution and state-backed land grabs.
In a carefully worded statement, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) emphasized that the deportations were fully compliant with South African immigration and labor laws, and that Washington’s threats were unwarranted.
“The recent deportation of seven Kenyan nationals by the Department of Home Affairs was conducted in strict accordance with South African law. These individuals were working without valid permits. The government will not compromise its sovereignty or the rule of law,” DIRCO said.
The U.S. had initially claimed its citizens were among those detained and threatened “serious consequences,” but these claims were later proven false. Trump officials also raised concerns about alleged leaks of sensitive information, which South Africa dismissed, reaffirming strict protocols for data security and diplomacy.
South Africa reiterated its commitment to engage the U.S. through formal diplomatic channels, stressing that bilateral relations must be grounded in mutual respect and factual dialogue.
Tensions between the two countries have been fueled by misinformation campaigns largely driven by right-wing groups, including the Solidarity Movement, Afriforum, and the Freedom Front Plus, with tacit support from the Democratic Alliance. Measures taken by the U.S. in response to perceived South African actions include the expulsion of Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool, tariffs on South African products, and boycotts of international forums such as the G20 summit.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has largely refrained from direct commentary, leaving Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola and diplomatic officials to articulate South Africa’s position. Calls are mounting for accountability for groups behind the misinformation campaigns, including potential criminal prosecution.