South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has firmly stated that no foreign power can dictate to the country who should or should not be arrested, following a tense exchange with former U.S. President Donald Trump.
The confrontation occurred after Trump suggested that Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema should be arrested for chanting the controversial liberation song “Kill the Boer, Kill the Farmer.” Ramaphosa, who has faced international scrutiny over the song’s alleged incitement of violence against white farmers, emphasized that South Africa’s legal system operates independently and will not be swayed by external pressure.
The president’s remarks come amid renewed global debate over Malema’s rhetoric, with Trump and other conservative figures accusing the EFF leader of promoting racial hatred. Ramaphosa reiterated that while South Africa respects freedom of expression, any actions deemed to incite violence are matters for domestic courts—not foreign politicians—to adjudicate. His stance has drawn mixed reactions, with some applauding his defense of national sovereignty, while critics argue that his government has been too lenient on hate speech. The incident underscores the delicate balance South Africa must strike between addressing historical grievances and maintaining social cohesion.
