Was Ramaphosa’s Rebuttal Enough? Analysts Weigh In on Trump’s White Genocide Claims
Mixed Reactions to South Africa’s Response
Political analyst Khaya Sithole acknowledged progress in recent discussions about former US President Donald Trump’s controversial white genocide claims, but highlighted significant gaps in the response. “The response to the white genocide claims was the difficult part because it is not anchored on facts,” Sithole noted.
He emphasized that while the conversation provided clarity on Trump’s statements, “what was really missing was a very clear denunciation of the genocide conversations by those that Trump takes more seriously.” Sithole specifically mentioned figures like John Steenhuisen and business tycoon Johann Rupert as key influencers who could have made a stronger impact.
Strategic Restraint vs. Missed Opportunities
Sanusha Naidu from the Institute for Global Dialogue praised President Cyril Ramaphosa’s diplomatic approach, stating: “The SA Presidency handled it very well. He handled it with maturity—it was measured.” She acknowledged the challenge of changing Trump’s mindset but credited Ramaphosa for creating doubt in his position.
However, human rights lawyer Yasmin Sooka expressed disappointment, particularly about the delegation’s composition: “It was quite a shock that we needed three white men to save us, none of whom rebutted the claims of persecution and genocide.” She drew parallels to FW de Klerk’s refusal to acknowledge apartheid as a crime against humanity.
Potential Global Repercussions
Sooka warned of possible international consequences, suggesting South Africa might face retaliatory legal actions: “Don’t be surprised if the American government files a case accusing South Africa of persecution and genocide.” She pointed to the dangerous spread of disinformation as fueling this narrative.
The human rights lawyer also raised concerns about Trump’s focus on EFF leader Julius Malema, cautioning about potential Magnitsky sanctions or travel bans. “Trump’s question to the president about Malema is quite loaded,” Sooka noted, suggesting it could be used to portray South Africa as failing to act against alleged genocide.
Despite differing perspectives, analysts agreed that only Ramaphosa and COSATU’s Zingiswa Losi made serious attempts to counter the misinformation during the discussions.