The African National Congress (ANC) has chosen not to pursue legal action against AfriForum, despite accusing the group of spreading misleading information in the United States about South Africa’s Expropriation Act and farm attacks. However, the ruling party has expressed strong dissatisfaction with AfriForum’s actions, accusing the organization of damaging the country’s international image and undermining national unity.
Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri, spokesperson for the ANC, criticized AfriForum for allegedly distorting facts during their trip to the U.S. to discuss the Expropriation Act and farm killings. “AfriForum should not be left alone after harming South Africa’s reputation,” she stated, suggesting that the ANC may explore alternative ways to hold the organization accountable.
According to the ANC, AfriForum misrepresented the situation in South Africa, exaggerating the impact of the Expropriation Act and incidents of farm attacks. This, the party argues, has tarnished the country’s image abroad and could have serious economic consequences. Misinformation of this nature, the ANC warned, might deter foreign investors and tourists, especially from the United States—one of South Africa’s key trading partners.
The ANC also expressed concern about how AfriForum’s claims could influence American perceptions of South Africa, which might lead to strained relations and economic setbacks. Bhengu-Motsiri suggested that the organization’s actions were not just harmful internationally but also divisive domestically. “When organizations promote negative narratives abroad, it stirs divisions at home and makes it harder for South Africans to work together toward solutions,” she added.
Despite their frustrations, the ANC believes that legal action may not be the most effective way to resolve the matter. Instead, the party is considering more strategic methods to counter the damage caused by AfriForum’s campaign. The ANC’s response reflects an effort to strike a balance between protecting South Africa’s reputation and avoiding further escalation through court battles.
The party remains committed to promoting national unity and restoring the country’s image. By seeking alternative solutions, the ANC hopes to repair the harm caused without deepening divisions or intensifying the dispute with AfriForum.