The government has announced that it will take steps to rein in dissident groups and individuals who are actively lobbying the administration of United States President Donald Trump to take adverse action against South Africa.
President Cyril Ramaphosa made the announcement in response to recent calls by right-wing groups urging Trump to intervene in South Africa with the aim of toppling his government. These renewed calls follow the United States’ invasion of Venezuela, which resulted in the abduction of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife.
Over the years, right-wing groups in South Africa have promoted false claims of a so-called “white genocide” in the country, alongside allegations of “race-based laws.” These claims have been amplified by prominent figures, including Trump himself and South African-born technology billionaire Elon Musk.
The uMkhonto weSizwe Party previously laid criminal charges against AfriForum, accusing the right-wing organisation of treason over what it described as a sustained misinformation campaign. The party alleges that this campaign was marketed through international tours in the United States and Europe, where the groups portrayed themselves as victims.
Until now, the Hawks have not prioritised the case against AfriForum. Speaking to Newsnote, the elite unit’s spokesperson, Colonel Katlego Mogale, said the investigation was “still in its early stages.” However, this is now expected to change following Ramaphosa’s strong reaction to the conduct of right-wing groups.
The president nevertheless stressed that any action taken must be lawful and measured, cautioning against haphazard responses to what many believe amounts to treasonous behaviour.
“We continue to examine all matters very carefully and with due diligence and due process. We are not the type of government that acts outside of established procedures. We act in accordance with the law, due process, and the principles of equity. All these matters will always be addressed in that manner,” Ramaphosa said.
Trump recently also launched missile strikes in northern Nigeria, claiming to target Islamic militants he accused of persecuting Christians — a move that has raised concerns about a disregard for international law.
Meanwhile, in Venezuela, large crowds remain on the streets demanding Maduro’s return, a call that has also been echoed by opposition parties.