Minister Ronald Lamola
By Thabo Mosia
In response to recent criticisms from U.S. officials regarding South Africa’s land reform initiatives, International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola has reiterated the nation’s commitment to its constitutional principles. He emphasized that South Africa remains a sovereign and democratic country dedicated to human dignity, equality, and the rule of law.
Minister Lamola’s statement comes on the heels of U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s announcement that he will not attend the upcoming G20 Foreign Ministers’ meeting in Johannesburg, scheduled for 20-21 February. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Rubio expressed his decision, stating: “South Africa is doing very bad things. Expropriating private property. Using G20 to promote ‘solidarity, equality, & sustainability.’” He further added, “My job is to advance America’s national interests, not waste taxpayer money or coddle anti-Americanism.” 
This development follows U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent threat to suspend aid to South Africa over its land expropriation policies. Trump alleged, without providing evidence, that South Africa is “confiscating” land and mistreating certain groups of people. In response, President Cyril Ramaphosa defended the country’s land reform measures, clarifying that the Expropriation Act aims to ensure equitable access to land in line with the constitution and does not involve arbitrary land seizures. 
The Expropriation Act, recently signed into law by President Ramaphosa, allows for the expropriation of land without compensation under specific circumstances deemed to be in the public interest. This legislation seeks to address historical injustices stemming from the apartheid era, during which Black South Africans were systematically dispossessed of their land. Despite these intentions, the law has faced criticism both domestically and internationally. 
In a bid to address concerns and clarify misconceptions, President Ramaphosa engaged in a discussion with Elon Musk, a prominent businessman and advisor to President Trump. The conversation aimed to counteract “disinformation” regarding South Africa’s land reform policies. Musk has previously criticized the South African government’s policies, alleging anti-white bias—a claim that has been widely disputed. 
International Relations spokesperson Chrispin Phiri emphasized that there is no arbitrary dispossession of land or private property in South Africa. He drew parallels between South Africa’s legislation and eminent domain laws present in other countries, including the United States. Phiri highlighted that principles such as solidarity and sustainability are integral to South Africa’s policies and are not indicative of an anti-American stance. 
The South African government remains open to engaging with U.S. officials to provide clarity on its land reform policies and to address any concerns. Minister Lamola reiterated the country’s commitment to non-racialism, non-sexism, and the rule of law, emphasizing that the constitution remains the guiding framework for all governmental actions.
As the G20 Foreign Ministers’ meeting approaches, South Africa continues to advocate for multilateralism and equitable treatment for nations of the Global South. The government aims to use its G20 presidency to promote a more balanced global system that addresses the needs and concerns of all nations.
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