Johannesburg, South Africa — In a pointed rebuttal of long-standing claims made by the former Trump administration, U.S. evangelical leader and spiritual advisor to Donald Trump, Pastor Mark Burns, has spoken out against the narrative that white South Africans are victims of genocide.
During an exclusive interview with Kaya News, Burns said he found no evidence of systematic targeting or land seizures resembling the dire warnings that were previously echoed by the Trump White House.
🔍 “Not Commissioned by the U.S. Government”
Currently on a self-funded visit to South Africa, Burns emphasized that his trip was not sponsored or endorsed by the U.S. government. He explained that his goal was to personally investigate claims of violence and land dispossession among white farmers — claims that have stirred controversy and misinformation in international media.
“I wanted to see for myself. As a man of faith, I believe in the truth, and so far, I’ve found no basis for the claims of genocide,” said Burns. “There are challenges in the country, sure — but not the racial warfare some have been led to believe.”
🌍 Countering a Global Narrative
The Trump administration had previously claimed that land reform in South Africa was leading to the unlawful seizure of farms from white owners, framing it as a human rights crisis. These assertions were widely criticized by South African officials and debunked by multiple human rights organizations.
Burns, known for his vocal support of Donald Trump, now appears to be taking a more independent and reconciliatory stance, stressing that South Africa’s issues are complex, but should not be distorted to suit a political agenda abroad.
🗣️ Meeting Farmers, Listening to Locals
Burns revealed he had met with several farmers and community members from various backgrounds during his trip. “The reality on the ground is different from what has been said in political soundbites,” he told Kaya News reporter Pitso Molemane.
The pastor urged both South Africans and international observers to focus on dialogue, reconciliation, and economic transformation that benefits all citizens — not just a privileged few or a targeted narrative.
