The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has called on G20 member states to reaffirm South Africa’s position in the global forum after US President Donald Trump questioned the country’s role ahead of the 2026 G20 Summit scheduled to be held in Miami, Florida.
In a statement released on Thursday, EFF spokesperson Sinawo Thambo described the comments as regrettable and said South Africa’s participation in the G20 was based on established multilateral principles, not the discretion of any single member state.
Background to Trump’s Remarks
President Trump recently posted claims on social media questioning South Africa’s human-rights record and referencing allegations of targeted violence against white citizens — claims that have been repeatedly dismissed by researchers, civil society groups, and government officials over the years.
President Cyril Ramaphosa responded by expressing disappointment, saying South Africa values constructive dialogue with all G20 partners and remains committed to transparent engagement.
EFF: Remarks Are Politically Motivated
According to the EFF, Trump’s comments appear to be linked to broader political disagreements, particularly South Africa’s foreign-policy positions. Thambo argued that South Africa had successfully hosted the previous G20 Summit and that the country remained a full and equal member of the body.
He said the G20’s rotation system ensures that all member states are treated equally, adding that no individual leader has the authority to remove another country from the grouping.
“The G20 is founded on cooperation and shared global interests. Any attempt to exclude a member would undermine the forum’s credibility,” Thambo said.
Cosatu Rejects Claims of Targeted Violence
Labour federation Cosatu also issued a statement addressing the ongoing allegations of “white genocide” and land-related violence, noting that independent assessments from academics, media organisations and community groups have found no evidence to support such claims.
Cosatu’s parliamentary coordinator Matthew Parks said farmers, businesses and community leaders across racial groups have consistently rejected the allegations.
“South Africa’s diversity is one of its strengths,” Parks said, adding that the country’s 2025 G20 presidency was widely supported and showcased the nation’s commitment to multilateral cooperation.
Government Reaffirms South Africa’s Role
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) reiterated that South Africa is a founding member of the G20 and took part in the 2025 summit as part of the G20 Troika — the outgoing, current, and incoming presidencies.
Dirco spokesperson Clayson Monyela said South Africa’s involvement in G20 processes is based on long-standing membership and cannot be subject to unilateral decisions by any member state.
Looking Ahead to 2026
With preparations already underway for the 2026 summit in the United States, South Africa has indicated it will continue working with global partners on economic recovery, climate commitments, and international development priorities.
Both government and civil-society stakeholders have stressed the importance of maintaining constructive diplomatic engagement and avoiding misinformation that could compromise multilateral cooperation.
South Africa is expected to participate fully in all G20 processes leading up to the summit.