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South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has firmly addressed allegations made by U.S. President Donald Trump regarding land confiscation and alleged human rights violations in South Africa.

In a statement, Ramaphosa emphasized that South Africa is a constitutional democracy committed to the rule of law, justice, and equality. He refuted claims of land confiscation, clarifying that the recently adopted Expropriation Act is not a tool for forced land seizures but rather a legally mandated process ensuring equitable land access in accordance with South Africa’s Constitution.

“South Africa, like the United States and other nations, has always had expropriation laws that balance public land usage with the protection of property rights,” Ramaphosa stated.

476171831_10161336462561593_8714312347949354699_n-1024x915 South African President Responds to Trump's Claims on Land Expropriation

Trump’s remarks, posted on his Truth Social platform, accused the South African government of mistreating certain groups of people and announced plans to cut off U.S. funding until an investigation was completed. In response, Ramaphosa highlighted that aside from PEPFAR aid—funding that constitutes 17% of South Africa’s HIV/AIDS program—there is no other significant financial support from the United States to South Africa.

Reaffirming South Africa’s diplomatic stance, Ramaphosa expressed openness to dialogue with the U.S. administration on land reform and bilateral relations.

“We look forward to engaging with the Trump administration over our land reform policy and other bilateral interests. We are certain that through these engagements, we will share a better and common understanding of these matters,” he said.

The United States remains a key strategic political and trade partner for South Africa, and Ramaphosa’s response underscores a commitment to maintaining diplomatic ties while addressing concerns through legal and constitutional frameworks.

The issue of land reform remains a sensitive and complex subject in South Africa, where historical injustices have led to ongoing discussions on equitable land redistribution. However, the government maintains that any expropriation efforts are conducted within the legal parameters of the country’s democratic principles.

With this response, the South African government seeks to dispel misinformation and affirm its commitment to lawful and just land reform while maintaining constructive international relations.

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