Cosatu
By Mpho Moloi
The Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu) has added its voice to the growing condemnation of the United States’ decision to grant refugee status to 49 Afrikaners who recently arrived in Washington, D.C. The trade union federation asserts that while South Africa grapples with challenges such as crime and inequality, claims of genocide and persecution against white South Africans are unfounded.
Cosatu’s parliamentary coordinator, Matthew Parks, emphasized that the individuals in question should represent South Africa positively abroad. He stated that these 49 individuals are not refugees but economic migrants seeking better opportunities. Parks highlighted that South Africa’s history is rich with migration, both forced and voluntary, and that the current situation does not constitute grounds for refugee status.
The African National Congress (ANC) has also rejected the US’s decision. ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula stated, “Let it be categorically stated: there are no Afrikaner refugees in South Africa. No section of our society is hounded, persecuted, or subject to ethnic victimisation.” He further described the claims as a fabrication designed to delegitimise South Africa’s democracy and insult the sacrifices made by generations who fought for freedom. 
Deputy President Paul Mashatile expressed hope that US President Donald Trump would accept an invitation from President Cyril Ramaphosa to visit South Africa. Mashatile believes that such a visit would dispel the false narrative of genocide against Afrikaners. He stated, “He will invite President Trump to come here so that he can see our beautiful country and see that there is no genocide here. We are beautiful, happy people, black and white, working and living together.”
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have taken a more stringent stance, calling for the revocation of South African citizenship for those who accepted the US’s offer. EFF whip Poppy Mailola stated that the group’s claims are untrue and that they are fleeing a South Africa that strives for justice and inclusivity. 
The United Democratic Movement (UDM) echoed similar sentiments, with Nqabayomzi Kwankwa stating that the group is not fleeing persecution but is suffering from apartheid nostalgia. He emphasized that South Africa is determined to heal and become more equal.
The US’s decision has also faced criticism domestically. The Episcopal Church announced it would end its refugee resettlement program with the US government rather than comply with orders to help resettle the white South Africans. The church’s presiding bishop criticized the administration’s decision to grant the Afrikaners refugee status, stating that it was painful to watch one group receive preferential treatment over many others who have been waiting in refugee camps or dangerous conditions for years. 
President Ramaphosa has firmly told US President Donald Trump that the 49 white South Africans who left for the United States are not refugees, rejecting claims of persecution. Speaking at the Africa CEO Forum in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, Ramaphosa emphasized that these Afrikaners do not face political or economic persecution in South Africa. He stressed South Africa’s commitment to unity under leaders like Nelson Mandela.
International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola reinforced this stance, stating that the group cannot provide any proof of persecution because there is none. He highlighted that crime in South Africa affects everyone, irrespective of race and gender.
The controversy has strained bilateral ties between South Africa and the US. President Ramaphosa plans a face-to-face meeting with President Trump to discuss the issue. He emphasized the importance of continued dialogue to address and resolve the matter.
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