Errol Musk, the father of tech billionaire Elon Musk, has spoken out in defense of his son’s recent remarks about South Africa, particularly his concerns over farm attacks and land expropriation policies.
Musk senior addressed the issue during an interview on PodcastAndChill, where he was asked about Elon’s interpretation of South Africa’s current political landscape. The conversation also touched on Elon’s controversial “salute” at former U.S. President Donald Trump’s inauguration, which sparked global debate.
Elon Musk’s Comments on South Africa
Elon Musk recently made headlines when he claimed that white farmers in South Africa face an ongoing “genocide”, criticizing the government for allegedly not doing enough to stop the violence. His remarks were widely reported by media outlets worldwide and stirred controversy both locally and abroad.
However, Errol Musk disputed these reports, saying that Elon never actually used the word “genocide” but rather pointed out the high rate of violent attacks on farmers.
“I think what he said was that white farmers are three times more likely to be shot than a police officer. This is not a good thing,” said Errol Musk.
The South African government strongly rejected Elon Musk’s claims, saying that while farm attacks do occur, they are not racially motivated, and crime affects all South Africans, regardless of race.
Ramaphosa’s Call with Elon Musk
Errol Musk revealed that President Cyril Ramaphosa personally called Elon to explain the details of the Land Expropriation Act.
This law, which has sparked both support and opposition, allows for the expropriation of land without compensation in certain cases. There has been widespread confusion over how the law will be implemented and whether landowners will receive payment when their property is expropriated.
Errol Musk said that tensions between South Africa and the United States were already present before Ramaphosa signed the law, and Elon’s comments only intensified the debate.
“I think that’s where it started and went onto other things,” he explained.
South African authorities and advocacy groups like AfriForum have been vocal in both defending and criticizing the Act, with some believing it is necessary for land reform and others seeing it as a threat to private property rights.
Concerns Over “Kill the Boer” Chant
While Errol Musk downplayed AfriForum’s criticism of the Act, he expressed concern over the controversial “Kill the Boer” chant, which some South Africans believe incites violence against white farmers.
“I’m more concerned when black people are chanting ‘Kill the Boer,'” he said.
The chant, which originated during South Africa’s fight against apartheid, has been the subject of legal battles. Some see it as part of the country’s historical struggle, while others argue it promotes racial hatred and should be banned.
During the interview, co-host Sol Phenduka clarified that the Expropriation Act is not just about land but also addresses hijacked buildings and abandoned properties, an issue affecting urban areas in South Africa.
Musk acknowledged that the name of the Act itself causes alarm, but said that after reading its details, people gain a better understanding of its intent.
Elon Musk’s Controversial “Salute” at Trump’s Inauguration
The discussion also touched on Elon Musk’s “salute” during Donald Trump’s inauguration, which some critics interpreted as a fascist or pro-Nazi gesture.
Errol Musk laughed off the controversy, dismissing the claims and pointing out that other U.S. presidents, including Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, have made similar gestures in the past.
“That’s what everybody does,” he said, rejecting the idea that the salute had any deeper meaning.
Some social media users and political commentators have accused Elon Musk of aligning with far-right ideologies, while his supporters argue that his actions were misunderstood and taken out of context.
Errol Musk’s Final Words on Elon
Ending the interview, Errol Musk defended his son’s character, insisting that Elon has good intentions.
“Elon is a very good man, believe me. Elon is your friend,” he said.
Despite the controversy, Elon Musk remains one of the most influential and talked-about figures in the world, and his comments on South Africa have reignited discussions on crime, land reform, and political tensions in the country.
As the debate continues, many will be watching to see whether Musk engages further with South African politics or if his father’s defense will be enough to ease tensions.