Ramaphosa dismisses US allegations as South Africa hands over G20 leadership to Washington.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has firmly dismissed allegations made by the United States accusing South Africa of “genocide” and land seizures, describing the claims as unfounded and damaging. His remarks came as the US formally took over the G20 Presidency on Monday, marking the transition of global leadership of the forum from Pretoria to Washington.
In his national address, Ramaphosa praised South Africans for successfully hosting the first-ever G20 Summit on African soil. He said the year-long cycle of engagements — which included more than 130 meetings and concluded with the Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg — showcased the country’s organisational capacity and the “Ubuntu spirit” that impressed international delegates.
The president highlighted that South Africa’s G20 term was anchored in advancing Africa’s priorities, including debt restructuring, climate justice, inequality, and fair participation in mineral value chains. He noted that leaders had agreed on measures to support vulnerable economies and expand access to affordable global financing, ensuring technological progress benefits developing nations.
Ramaphosa also cautioned against what he called coordinated misinformation campaigns, saying such actions undermine South Africa’s global partnerships. He described Washington’s decision to skip the Johannesburg summit as “unfortunate,” especially as the US is one of the original architects of the G20 and now steps into the presidency for 2026.
Addressing comments from US President Donald Trump suggesting South Africa might be excluded from next year’s gatherings, Ramaphosa stressed that South Africa’s place in the G20 is secure and not dependent on invitations. He said the country remains committed to constructive relations with the US, based on “mutual respect and dignity.”
He reaffirmed that South Africa’s constitutional order, independent courts, and national dialogue platforms are the legitimate avenues for addressing domestic concerns, not external narratives that distort the situation.
The US, in its own statement released on Monday, confirmed its assumption of the 2026 G20 Presidency. It announced that its agenda will prioritise reducing regulatory barriers, securing affordable energy supply chains, and accelerating technological innovation. The 2026 Leaders’ Summit will be held in Miami, coinciding with the United States’ 250th anniversary celebrations.
