South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has hit back at US President Donald Trump’s recent threat to cut off aid. On Monday, Ramaphosa firmly denied claims that the South African government was confiscating land, saying, “South Africa is a constitutional democracy rooted in the rule of law, justice, and equality.”

The statement came after Trump posted on Truth Social, vowing to stop all future funding to South Africa unless there’s an investigation into allegations of land confiscation and mistreatment of certain groups. Ramaphosa clarified that South Africa’s land reform policy is guided by the constitution and ensures equitable access to land.

South Africa’s history of land reform dates back to the end of apartheid in 1994, with policies aimed at addressing centuries of racial injustice. Black South Africans, who make up 80% of the population, still own a small fraction of the land, prompting ongoing efforts to address inequality.

Earlier this year, Ramaphosa signed a bill allowing land expropriation without compensation in specific cases. However, he emphasized that the law is not a tool for confiscation but a means to ensure fairness and justice.

Despite the new law, constitutional protections remain intact, and experts predict legal challenges if the policy is enforced. Ramaphosa expressed hope for continued engagement with the US, noting that while the US is a key trade partner, it provides little direct funding beyond HIV/AIDS relief programs.

This isn’t the first time Trump has raised concerns about South Africa’s land reform, having made similar statements during his first term. Ramaphosa’s response underscores the complexity of the issue and the country’s commitment to constitutional processes.