South African politicians and citizens are uniting in growing demands for the controversial lobby group AfriForum to face treason charges for allegedly spreading falsehoods about farm killings, the Expropriation Act, and other issues on the international stage. In an impassioned petition on Charge.org, ANC activist Phindile George from Khayelitsha called for both the organization and its key leaders, including Ernst Roets and Kallie Kriel, to be held accountable for actions she described as “treasonous” against the Republic.
At the heart of AfriForum’s critique is its stance on the Expropriation Act, which it claims is dangerously vague and could lead to the confiscation of farmers’ land. George and other critics argue that these claims are fueling misinformation and damaging South Africa’s international image.
In her petition, George goes further, demanding the deregistration of AfriForum as an organization in South Africa, accusing it of causing harm to the nation’s economy. She pointed out that the group’s efforts, particularly its lobbying to the United States, have led to severe consequences. The withdrawal of US funding from various South African NGOs has resulted in the loss of over 15,000 jobs, leaving families across the country without income, and jeopardizing critical health programs for those living with HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis.
“Their actions have direct repercussions for the people of South Africa who are now suffering the consequences of lost jobs,” George argued, warning that AfriForum’s activities were an internal threat that could leave the country vulnerable to external forces.
The petition has already gained nearly 10,000 signatures, a testament to the widespread concern over AfriForum’s alleged actions. This follows a legal move by the uMkhonto WeSizwe Party (MKP), which filed treason charges against AfriForum in February. MKP Deputy President John Hlophe condemned AfriForum’s international lobbying efforts, claiming that their actions influenced US President Donald Trump’s decision to issue an executive order penalizing South Africa.
Hlophe condemned AfriForum for “deliberately lobbying foreign powers to act against the sovereignty and economic interests of South Africa,” and demanded that the group be questioned over their alleged role in undermining the country.
The controversy escalated when President Cyril Ramaphosa also voiced strong criticism, denouncing AfriForum and the Solidarity Movement’s recent trip to the US. Ramaphosa cautioned against actions that would sow division and weaken national unity, urging South Africans to resolve their issues at home rather than seeking international intervention.
“We need to send a clear message that we, as proud South Africans, should stay here and solve our problems. What they are doing has only served to deepen divisions, and that is not the way to build a nation,” said Ramaphosa.
As the debate rages on, the call for accountability grows louder, with AfriForum’s influence and actions remaining at the center of South Africa’s polarized political landscape.
