Mandela’s Great-Grandson Demands Prosecution of Afrikaner Refugees Fleeing Persecution

Mayibuye Melisizwe Mandela, Nelson Mandela’s great-grandson, has sparked outrage by demanding South Africa prosecute over 59 Afrikaner refugees who fled to the U.S., claiming they fabricated persecution claims. The refugees, vetted and granted asylum by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for verified persecution, are now facing accusations of destabilizing South Africa.

In February 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump offered asylum to Afrikaners, citing cultural and economic oppression. The first group arrived in May, escaping what supporters describe as escalating racial discrimination and violent crime, including farm attacks. Solidarity, an Afrikaner advocacy group, confirmed the “serious cultural persecution” which could become life-threatening at any moment.

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Mandela alleges the refugees violated South Africa’s Immigration, Equality, and Anti-Terrorism Acts, accusing them and organizations like AfriForum and Solidarity of inciting racial division and defaming the nation’s democracy. He insists their actions warrant criminal charges, calling for investigations by multiple government departments. However, spokespersons from the National Prosecuting Authority and Home Affairs declined to comment, noting no formal case has been filed.

Solidarity’s Jaco Kleynhans called the accusations “unfounded,” urging focus on South Africa’s crime and discrimination issues. Both Solidarity and AfriForum face a government treason probe for allegedly providing misleading information to the U.S., influencing aid cuts and asylum decisions.

Afrikaner refugees, now building new lives in the U.S., continue to face a fear of retribution. Supporters argue Mandela’s call threatens their safety and ignores their verified persecution, urging South Africa to address minority rights instead of pursuing legal vendettas.