‘It’s not the G-US, we will be there’ – Presidential Office

(The post News) – In his national address following the G20 summit, President Cyril Ramaphosa warned of individuals spreading lies about South Africa. He mentioned that these individuals were “within our country.”

These lies were directed to the United States. He described these actions as part of a campaign of disinformation that fuels damaging narratives abroad.

Ramaphosa stressed that false claims were not only baseless. Claims alleging “white genocide” are particularly harmful to South Africa’s global standing. The President’s remarks came after U.S. President Donald Trump repeated discredited allegations that South Africa was persecuting white farmers.

These claims formed the basis of Washington’s decision. They led to a boycott of the Johannesburg G20 summit. Washington also announced South Africa’s exclusion from the 2026 summit in Miami. Ramaphosa labelled the accusations “blatant misinformation” and urged South Africans not to contribute to narratives that weaken the country’s credibility.

Protecting South Africa’s Reputation

Ramaphosa emphasised that South Africa remains a founding and full member of the G20. He stated that its presidency was conducted with integrity. It was also based on consensus. He warned that spreading lies to foreign governments is harmful.

It undermines the collective effort of South Africans. They worked tirelessly to host a successful summit.

He noted that misinformation erodes trust between nations and can have serious consequences for diplomacy, trade, and investment. By amplifying false claims, individuals risk isolating South Africa from key partners. ‘They also damage its reputation as a reliable member of the international community.

The President’s caution was also a call for national unity. He urged citizens not to be used as instruments in foreign political agendas. He also encouraged them to stand firm against attempts to destabilize the country. Ramaphosa highlighted that South Africa’s strength lies in its ability to engage constructively with global partners, even when disagreements arise.

He reassured the nation that relations with the United States would remain cordial. However, he insisted that South Africa would not allow its sovereignty to be undermined by lies. He emphasized that its credibility would also be protected. “It is not G1 or G‑US. It is G20,” his spokesman Vincent Magwenya said, underscoring the importance of respecting the multilateral process.

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Nomsa Diallo

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