Ramaphosa says 59 Afrikaner ‘refugees’ do not qualify for asylum, seeks talks with Trump

In an exclusive interview with CNN’s Larry Madowo during the recently held African CEO’s Forum, Ramaphosa called the situation “deeply concerning” and emphasized that the individuals in question do not meet the internationally accepted definition of refugees.

While being questioned on the status of the 59 white Afrikaner refugees who recently arrived the United States, Ramaphosa responded firmly: “We have raised our own concern because those people who are being enticed to go to the United States do not fit the definition of a refugee.”

He went on to explain that refugee status typically applies to those fleeing persecution—whether political, religious, or economic.

“These individuals do not fit that bill,” he said. “I had a conversation with President Trump on the phone. He asked me, ‘What is happening down there?’ I told him that what he was being told by those opposed to transformation back home in South Africa is not true.” the South African president reiterated.

Ramaphosa noted that South Africa’s project of nation-building, rooted in its post-apartheid constitutional values—is being misrepresented by small, fringe elements who are resistant to change.

“They would actually prefer to see South Africa going back to apartheid-type policies,” he said. “And I told him I would never do that. I studied at the feet of Nelson Mandela.”

He pointed out that South Africa remains the only African country where former colonizers stayed and became part of the nation’s fabric, and that efforts at inclusion and transformation are being undermined by those unwilling to embrace change.

Describing the group as “anti-transformation” and “anti-change,” Ramaphosa added that “they are not being persecuted or hounded. They are leaving ostensibly because they don’t want to embrace the changes taking place in our country in accordance with our constitution.”

On Monday, a group of 59 white Afrikaners from South Africa arrived in the United States as part of a refugee program set up by President Donald Trump’s administration, claiming sanctuary from racial discrimination against white people.

Trump echoed far-right claims that white people in South Africa have faced systematic violence since the end of white minority rule, stating the Afrikaner minority’s refugee applications were expedited due to “racial discrimination“.

However, South Africa has repeatedly denounced this information.

Despite his dissatisfaction with the situation’s handling, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed hope that ongoing diplomatic discussions would clear the air.

Ramaphosa mentioned a conversation with Trump, saying, “I thought he understood that… I’d like to come and meet him so we can discuss further.”

Ramaphosa described the US decision to accept the Afrikaners as a misreading of the situation but remained committed to dialogue with Washington.