Cyril Ramaphosa shuts down Donald Trump talk at funeral

President Cyril Ramaphosa has confirmed that issues raised by US President Donald Trump during their recent Oval Office meeting in Washington will be addressed “in due course,” but declined to elaborate further when questioned.

The bilateral meeting, described by both sides as “robust and fruitful,” took a contentious turn when President Trump brought up farm attacks in South Africa and played videos of EFF leader Julius Malema, claiming – without evidence – that there was a genocide against white farmers.

He also questioned why Malema had not been arrested.

Addressing the media briefly at a funeral service for the late deputy president of the ANC Women’s League, Lungi Mnganga-Gcabashe, Ramaphosa said: “I am at a funeral and we are here to mourn, and I would prefer that I’m allowed to mourn. All these issues will be duly addressed properly. Here I’ve come to mourn my sister… So I’m in the mood of mourning, if you don’t mind.”

Julius Malema, Starlink not part of official agenda

President Cyril Ramaphosa later clarified that Julius Malema and the farm attack narrative were not part of the formal agenda during the Oval Office talks, and dismissed the insinuations as unfounded.

He also confirmed that Starlink, the satellite internet service by Elon Musk, was not discussed at the meeting, despite speculation that it might be on the table.

Focus on trade and AGOA

Despite the tense moment, Ramaphosa described the meeting as productive, particularly during a working lunch that included discussions on trade, investment, the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) – and even golf.

“There is ongoing engagement between US and South African officials, particularly on trade and industry matters,” he noted.

Diplomatic relations tested

The meeting came amid increased diplomatic strain between the two nations, following US cuts to aid and tension over South Africa’s non-aligned stance on several global conflicts.

Trump’s remarks on race and land reform have added fuel to long-standing diplomatic friction.

Nevertheless, Ramaphosa expressed hope that bilateral cooperation will continue, emphasising South Africa’s commitment to dialogue and mutual respect.

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