‘We Are Here To Stay’ – AfriForum Rejects Trump’s Offer
AfriForum has rejected US President Donald Trump’s plan to resettle white South Africans as refugees in America, insisting that the focus should be on punishing ANC leaders instead. The civil rights group, which represents Afrikaner interests, maintains that its members will not leave the country and instead urges the US to take action against the ruling party.
AfriForum CEO Kallie Kriel told The Citizen that while they appreciated Trump’s recognition of their plight, they would not abandon their homeland.
“We have an appreciation for the fact that the US recognises the discrimination experienced by Afrikaners at the moment, but we do, however, see the future of Afrikaners in Africa.”
“We were formed as a people in Africa and we can only survive as a cultural community on the southern top of Africa.”
Kriel emphasised that the cost of relocating would be “too high” and stressed that their focus was on addressing South Africa’s issues rather than leaving.
“We are here to stay. It might irritate the radical elements that hate us, but we are here to stay.”
AfriForum Urges US To Target ANC Leaders
Trump signed an executive order on Friday targeting South Africa over land expropriation policies and the country’s case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. The order directs the US government to prioritise humanitarian relief, including resettling Afrikaners who face “unjust racial discrimination”.
However, AfriForum wants any action to focus on ANC leadership rather than ordinary South Africans.
“We will write an official letter to the US government requesting that any action against SA instead be directed at senior ANC leaders directly and not South Africa’s residents.”
The organisation also plans to meet with both the South African and US governments to discuss the issue.
Trump Suspends Refugee Programme
Despite his offer to resettle white South Africans, Trump recently suspended refugee admissions into the US. In an executive order dated 20 January, he claimed the country could not handle large numbers of refugees without compromising resources and security.
“I, therefore, direct that entry into the United States of refugees under the US Refugee Admissions Program be suspended… until a finding is made in accordance with section 4 of this order.”
The suspension took effect from 27 January 2025.
Trump has also frozen HIV/AIDS funding to South Africa as part of his “America First” policy and criticised the newly signed Expropriation Act, which allows for land seizures without compensation. The South African government has dismissed his claims.