FF Plus says ‘no more delays’ as US tightens pressure on South Africa
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced new visa restrictions targeting South African officials accused of race‑based discrimination.
The Freedom Front Plus has warned that President Cyril Ramaphosa’s administration is displaying contempt for U.S. conditions to normalize relations with South Africa. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced new visa restrictions targeting officials accused of race-based discrimination and land seizures, marking the administration's strongest rebuke yet of Pretoria's handling of minority rights.
President Ramaphosa has denied allegations of systemic discrimination against white citizens, claiming there is "no evidence of persecution." However, FF Plus leader Dr. Corné Mulder stated that the announcement makes it clear there are "no more delays" in addressing U.S. conditions. Mulder cited previous actions by the FF Plus, including warning of consequences for South Africa's delay in responding to the US' five conditions.
These include classifying farm attacks as a priority crime, condemning the chant "Kill the Boer," ensuring fair compensation for land expropriation, exempting US enterprises from BEE requirements, and demonstrating non-alignment in foreign policy. The U.S. accuses Pretoria of undermining peace, economic stability, and the rule of law.
The ANC-led government has pushed back, with International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola defending South Africa's right to implement laws addressing racial injustice and claiming its legislation is designed to redress historical exclusion. Experts and civil society groups remain divided on the implications of the visa restrictions, with some welcoming the move and others cautioning against stigmatizing communities and emphasizing the broader crime crisis affecting South Africa.
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