Resettlement of Afrikaners in US as refugees ‘entirely politically motivated’ Dirco says

The International Relations Department (Dirco) said the resettlement of white South Africans or Afrikaners in the United States under the guise of being “refugees” is “entirely politically motivated”.

US President Donald Trump’s administration is set to bring the first group of Afrikaners it has classified as refugees to the US early next week.

‘Mission South Africa’

In March, Trump set up a programme called “Mission South Africa” offering an expedited pathway to US citizenship for white South Africans, falsely claiming that the government was confiscating their land and calling their treatment in the country “terrible”.

Dirco spokesperson Chrispin Phiri confirmed that Deputy Minister Alvin Botes held what it called a “cordial discussion” with the US Deputy Secretary of State, Christopher Landau, about the departure of white South Africans to the US.

“The discussion follows engagements via the diplomatic channels, where the government expressed concerns with the information conveyed that the United States has commenced with processing alleged refugees from South Africa and will begin resettling these citizens in the United States.”

ALSO READ: First SA white Afrikaner refugees set to arrive in US next week

‘Politically motivated’

Phiri said Dirco reiterated that allegations of discrimination against Afrikaners were “unfounded”.

“It is most regrettable that it appears that the resettlement of South Africans to the United States under the guise of being ‘refugees’ is entirely politically motivated and designed to question South Africa’s constitutional democracy, Phiri said.

“A country which has, in fact, suffered true persecution under apartheid rule and has worked tirelessly to prevent such levels of discrimination from ever occurring again, including through the entrenchment of rights in our Constitution, which is enforced vigorously through our judicial system.

“In addition, it is not clear how the principle of non-refoulement will be applied in relation to these citizens once they are resettled,” said Phiri.

SA will not block anyone

Phiri said South Africa will not block white South Africans or Afrikaners who want to leave the country.

“Whilst South Africa challenges the United States’ assessments of alleged refugee status, it will not block citizens who seek to depart the country from doing so, as it also observes their right of freedom of movement and freedom of choice, specifically the right to leave the country, as contained in section 21(2) of the Constitution.

“However, it is essential that in doing so, South Africa ensures that it is compliant with other domestic laws and prescripts,” Phiri said.

ALSO READ: WATCH: AfriForum ‘not having sleepless nights’ over allegations of high treason

Status of people leaving

Phiri added that through diplomatic channels, Dirco has sought the status of people that will be departing for the US, whether as asylum seekers, refugees or ordinary citizens

“Dirco has sought assurances as to whether the persons have been appropriately vetted by competent South African authorities to ensure that they do not have any outstanding criminal cases pending against them; amongst others.

“The Government of South Africa remains dedicated to constructive dialogue with the United States of America, anchored in mutual respect for sovereignty, the rule of law, and shared commitment to deepening mutually beneficial bilateral partnership,” Phiri said.

‘Discrimination allegations unfounded’

Phiri said Dirco has reiterated that allegations of discrimination are unfounded.

“The South African Police Service statistics on farm-related crimes do not support allegations of violent crime targeted at farmers generally or any particular race. There are sufficient structures available within South Africa to address concerns of discrimination.

“Moreover, even if there are allegations of discrimination, it is our view that these do not meet the threshold of persecution required under domestic and international refugee law,” Phiri said.

Phiri stated progressive judgements from South African courts, particularly the Constitutional Court, have “demonstrated a principled commitment to protect minorities and vulnerable groups,” adding that “this shows the extent to which South Africa is working towards a country in which every citizen is free and protected”.

NOW READ: WATCH: AfriForum went to Washington to gossip about SA – Mufamadi