Economic Freedom Fighter (EFF) leader Julius Malema has come out in strong opposition to Donald Trump’s comments on land expropriation without compensation.
This comes after the president of the United States condemned the implementation of laws allowing for land to be expropriated without compensation in South Africa.
Malema denounces Trump’s ‘threat’
Malema held a press briefing to voice his opinions on the controversy surrounding the US.
“The EFF has noted the threat by the President of the United States of America Donald Trump, who has issued a threat to cut foreign aid to South Africa and impose sanctions on South Africa for adopting legislation that permits the expropriation of land without compensation and implementing policies that addresses historical race-based inequalities in our country.” Julius Malema
The EFF leader has denounced the comments made by Trump as nothing less than “offensive”.
The statement made by Donald Trump is offensive and undermines our sovereignty and is a reminder that our reliance on foreign direct investment surrenders us to the will of imperialists who use money to dictate the economic and policy direction of Africa.” Julius Malema
EFF leader adamant Trump won’t halt expropriation
Furthermore, Malema made it abundantly clear that Trump’s attempt to intervene will do little to stop the implementation of these laws.
“We want to make it categorically clear to the president of the USA that we are going expropriate land without compensation and pursue legislative measures to do so and no threat will stop us.” Julius Malema
Malema went on the claim that Trump had misinterpreted the act and that the new law was simply a ‘mild and cosmetic’ intervention.
“His misinterpretation of the expropriation, which is a mild and cosmetic intervention, is an assessment of a measure that is going to be pursued through the amendment of our Constitution as South Africans and there is nothing he can do to undermine our independence.” Julius Malema
Ramaphosa on land expropriation amid Trump turmoil
Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa has issued a statement in response to Trump’s comments on the land issue, denying that land has been confiscated in South Africa.
“South Africa is a constitutional democracy that is deeply rooted in the rule of law, justice and equality. The South African government has not confiscated any land.” President Cyril Ramaphosa
Ramaphosa has denied that the Expropriation Act is a tool to land grab but rather a legal process to facilitate public access to land.
“The recently adopted Expropriation Act is not a confiscation instrument, but a constitutionally mandated legal process that ensures public access to land in an equitable and just manner as guided by the constitution.” President Cyril Ramaphosa
What are your thoughts on the USA intervening in land expropriation without compensation?
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