Amidst US Lobbying and ANC Tensions, South Africa’s Priority Crime Unit Probes Alleged Treason Cases
Introduction
The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, commonly known as the Hawks, has confirmed the investigation of four dockets of high treason, reportedly targeting AfriForum and Solidarity. This development comes amid heightened tensions between these organizations and the African National Congress (ANC) government, as well as AfriForum’s controversial lobbying efforts in the United States.
Background: AfriForum’s US Lobbying and ANC Clashes
AfriForum, a South African organization advocating for minority rights, has been actively lobbying the US government to intervene in what it describes as threats to Afrikaans culture and the safety of white farmers. The group’s high-profile meetings with the Trump administration in February 2025 sparked outrage from the ANC, which accused AfriForum of promoting a “racist sense of entitlement.”
The ANC government has also criticized AfriForum and Solidarity for spreading claims of “white genocide” and undermining South Africa’s international reputation. These allegations have been widely debated, with some dismissing them as exaggerated and others expressing concern over rural violence.
The Hawks’ Investigation: Key Details
Hawks head, General Godfrey Lebeya, confirmed that four dockets of high treason are under investigation. While he refrained from naming the entities involved, sources indicate that AfriForum and Solidarity are the primary targets. The cases were opened at various police stations across South Africa and later centralized under the Hawks for further investigation.
High treason is a serious offense in South Africa, carrying severe penalties, including life imprisonment. The investigation is expected to focus on whether AfriForum and Solidarity’s actions, particularly their engagement with foreign governments, constitute a threat to South Africa’s sovereignty.
Legal and Political Implications
Legal experts have weighed in on the case, with some arguing that lobbying foreign governments does not necessarily amount to treason. However, others suggest that if AfriForum and Solidarity are found to have encouraged foreign intervention against the South African government, it could meet the legal threshold for high treason.
The ANC has welcomed the investigation, stating that it will hold accountable any entities that undermine the country’s democracy. Meanwhile, AfriForum and Solidarity have denied any wrongdoing, calling the investigation politically motivated.
The Role of the Expropriation Act
The investigation comes in the wake of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s implementation of the Expropriation Act and the Basic Education Laws Amendment. These policies have been contentious, with AfriForum and Solidarity arguing that they disproportionately affect minority communities. The organizations have been vocal in their opposition, which may have contributed to the current legal scrutiny.
International Reactions
AfriForum’s lobbying efforts in the US have drawn mixed reactions. While some American politicians have expressed support for the group’s cause, others have criticized it for exacerbating racial tensions in South Africa. The outcome of the Hawks’ investigation could have significant implications for South Africa’s international relations, particularly with the US.
Conclusion
As the Hawks continue their investigation, the case against AfriForum and Solidarity highlights the deep political and cultural divides in South Africa. The outcome of this probe could have far-reaching consequences for the country‘s legal landscape and its relationship with foreign governments.
