(3 Minutes Read)
South Africa has opted not to pursue Starlink’s satellite internet service due to concerns about Elon Musk’s opinions, which the Presidency has labelled as “unprogressive” and “racist.” This decision follows a public disagreement between Musk and President Cyril Ramaphosa over the country’s land reform policies.
Musk questioned the Expropriation Act, alleging that South Africa has openly racist ownership laws. This prompted a strong reaction from South African officials, with spokesperson Vincent Magwenya stating that the country would not welcome investments from someone known for spreading “lies” and harmful views.
As a result of this ongoing tension, negotiations to bring Musk’s Starlink service to South Africa have come to a standstill. South African officials had been discussing plans to provide high-speed internet to underserved areas, but those talks are now paused.
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President Ramaphosa clarified that the Expropriation Act allows for land to be taken without compensation under certain conditions, aimed at ensuring fair access to land and addressing historical injustices, rather than facilitating land seizure. Despite Musk’s comments, South Africa is committed to its land reform policies and is engaging in diplomatic talks with the U.S. government regarding the issue.
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