Minister Ntshavheni's comments on misinformation spark AfriForum backlash
AfriForum criticises South African government's SSA stance on misinformation
Image: Jairus Mmutle/GCIS
AfriForum, South Africa’s Afrikaner civil society organisation, has issued a strong response to recent statements by Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, concerning the role of the State Security Agency (SSA) in monitoring and acting against misinformation.
During a National Council of Provinces session on Tuesday, May 25, 2025, Ntshavheni announced that the SSA would be taking steps against individuals and organisations spreading what the government considers misinformation about South Africa.
She expressed concerns over claims by some minority groups alleging genocide activities by the South African government, assertions that experts and independent analysts have dismissed as misinformation, particularly relating to South Africa’s stance on Israel’s military operations in Gaza.
AfriForum Response
Kallie Kriel, CEO of AfriForum, responded to these developments in an interview with IOL on Wednesday, strongly criticising the government's approach.
He argued that the South African government focuses on prosecuting organisations like AfriForum and the Solidarity Movement for engaging with international entities, including the US Department of State and former President Donald Trump’s administration.
“The South African government now wants to prosecute AfriForum and the Solidarity Movement because these organisations dared to engage with President Trump’s administration and the US Department of State.
“This is an alarming attempt to silence voices that challenge the official narrative.”
“The Presidency’s attempts to silence opposing voices through intimidation and prosecution do not create a favourable environment, especially with President Ramaphosa’s planned visit to Washington,” Kriel said.
“Such tactics resemble those used by authoritarian regimes rather than democratic societies.”
Concerns Over Democratic Freedoms and International Relations
AfriForum expressed concern that the government’s focus on monitoring and potentially prosecuting organisations based on their international engagement could undermine democratic freedoms and stifle legitimate debate.
Kriel accused the government of turning to undemocratic tactics.
“The Presidency now appears to be resorting to actions reminiscent of oppressive regimes to silence dissenting voices. This not only threatens civil liberties but also risks damaging South Africa’s reputation on the international stage.”
Government’s Perspective on Security and Misinformation
In her parliamentary address, Minister Ntshavheni emphasised the importance of safeguarding national security.
She explained that the SSA actively monitors international political movements and support groups due to concerns over their potential influence on South Africa’s domestic affairs.
She highlighted efforts to combat disinformation campaigns, cyber operations, and ideological influences that could undermine public trust and destabilise democratic institutions.
“Disinformation and foreign influence operations pose significant risks to our democracy,” Ntshavheni said.
While the government emphasised the need to combat disinformation and protect national interests, AfriForum argues that such measures risk undermining democratic rights and suppressing legitimate dissent.
thabo.makwakwa@inl.co.za
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