Mbeki: ‘Kill the Boer’ Chant Is Not a Threat, But a Struggle-Era Symbol

Thabo Mbeki, the former president of South Africa, has commented on the ongoing controversy surrounding the chant “Kill the Boer,” arguing that its use is symbolic rather than a direct call to violence. EFF leader Julius Malema’s well-known use of the chant has drawn fresh criticism, particularly from prominent people around the world.

In an interview with SABC, Mbeki explained that the chant is a cultural manifestation of the anti-apartheid movement. He emphasized that such slogans should be interpreted in their historical and symbolic context and were never meant to incite violence against civilians.

Thabo Mbeki on the Kill the Boer Kill the Farmer chant. #sabcnews pic.twitter.com/TKwSmsCukT

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It’s a chant that originates from the conflict. We don’t take these chants literally in African tradition,” Mbeki clarified. “These were not intended to incite violence, but to provide inspiration during trying times.”

Mbeki made these remarks after former US President Donald Trump publicly urged President Cyril Ramaphosa to detain Malema, arguing that the chant incites violence against white farmers, a claim that is based on the debunked theory of “white genocide.”

Responding at a rally in the Free State, Malema upheld his claim that the song is deeply ingrained in South Africa’s liberation history and is protected by the constitution.

“That song isn’t mine. It wasn’t written by me. Malema informed supporters, “I’m defending the legacy of our struggle heroes.” “I’ll keep singing it forever.” This would be a betrayal of the history of our people.

AfriForum filed a case to have the chant banned, but the Constitutional Court rejected it earlier this year. The court upheld South Africa’s constitutional commitment to free speech by finding no justification for banning the expression.

In South Africa after apartheid, the controversy has rekindled public discussion about historical memory, cultural expression, and reconciliation. Supporters see the chant as a vital reminder of the nation’s struggle for freedom, while detractors claim it exacerbates racial tension.

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Sourced:African Insider

Picture: X/@SABCNews