Elon Musk has advocates for increased white South African immigration to Europe.
The Tesla CEO, who was born in Pretoria, South Africa, took to X to agree with a post claiming that white South Africans are “persecuted for their race” and should be granted easier immigration access.
Musk quoted the tweet, which also argued that white South Africans are “one of the few population groups that are fiscally positive when immigrating to Europe,” responding with a simple “Yes.”
His comments have drawn scrutiny, particularly given his vocal support for the large-scale deportation of undocumented immigrants from the United States.
The contrast in Musk’s stance—advocating for preferential treatment for white South Africans while backing stricter immigration policies in the US—has sparked debate.
Musk’s remarks come amid heightened tensions over South Africa’s land reform policies.
Earlier this year, President Cyril Ramaphosa signed a bill allowing the government to expropriate farmland without compensation, aiming to address historical land disparities rooted in colonialism and apartheid.
The legislation has reignited global discussions on land ownership in South Africa, where white farmers still own a significant share of the country’s land despite Black South Africans making up the majority population.
Critics of the bill, including Musk, argue that it discriminates against white landowners.
Musk further amplified his stance by questioning Ramaphosa’s defense of the law, writing: “Why do you have openly racist ownership laws?”
US President Donald Trump, whom Musk has advised on policy matters, also condemned South Africa’s land reform efforts.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump labeled the law a “human rights VIOLATION” and warned of potential funding cuts to South Africa.
Following Musk’s comments, President Ramaphosa reportedly reached out to the billionaire, urging him to engage in direct discussions with Trump.
Ramaphosa’s office emphasized that South Africa remains committed to principles of justice, fairness, and equality under its constitution.