In a significant development on the diplomatic front, Johann Rupert, South Africa’s wealthiest man, is reportedly in Washington, DC, potentially accompanying President Cyril Ramaphosa for a pivotal meeting with US President Donald Trump.
According to a News24 report, it was Rupert who facilitated the meeting amid escalating tensions between the US and South Africa that was ramped when 49 Afrikaners were given refugee status by Trump.
In addition, this high-profile encounter comes in the wake of US president issuing an executive order on February 7 to cut all funding to South Africa, a decision that has severely affected crucial funding for HIV and TB research and medicine.
Rupert’s involvement stems not only from his position as a prominent businessman and investor in South Africa’s agricultural sector but also from his apparent frustration with Trump’s portrayal of Afrikaners, whom the US president has labelled as “refugees.”
Rupert, an Afrikaans speaker himself, has reportedly been vocal in urging Trump to rectify this narrative and engage constructively with Ramaphosa.
The background to this meeting is deeply intertwined with recent criticisms Trump has made regarding land reform in South Africa, which were perceived as inflammatory and harmful to South Africa’s international standing.
Rupert’s advocacy highlights a more nuanced perspective within South African leadership regarding the dialogue with the U.S. and aims to foster a more collaborative relationship. Sources familiar with the situation indicate that Rupert’s consistent dialogue with Trump included an earlier call that facilitated communication between the two leaders post-Trump’s election.
As Ramaphosa arrives in Washington with a delegation comprised of senior ministers, including International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola and Trade and Industry Minister Parks Tau, speculation lingers regarding Rupert’s exact role within the group.
While it remains uncertain if Rupert will officially join the delegation, the significance of his influence during this diplomatic mission cannot be understated.
NEWS
