Secretary of State Marco Rubio has announced his intention to boycott the upcoming Group of 20 (G-20) summit in Johannesburg, South Africa. His decision stems from strong disapproval of the South African government's recently enacted land expropriation law.

The controversial legislation empowers authorities to seize land for public use or in the public interest, with promises of "just and equitable compensation." This move has sparked debate, given the historical disparity in land ownership between predominantly Black citizens and largely White landowners in South Africa.

While the law stipulates compensation in most cases, it also allows for expropriation without compensation under specific circumstances deemed "just and equitable and in the public interest." This provision has drawn criticism, particularly from the Trump administration.

Rubio publicly declared his boycott on social media, criticizing South Africa for "expropriating private property" and promoting what he views as a politically charged agenda at the G-20 summit. He emphasized his responsibility to prioritize American interests and avoid condoning anti-American sentiments.

Former President Trump echoed Rubio's concerns, denouncing the land seizure bill as a "massive Human Rights VIOLATION" and threatening to halt funding to South Africa pending a thorough investigation. The South African government, however, has refuted these claims, insisting that no unjust confiscations have taken place and expressing a willingness to engage with the U.S. on the matter.

South African analyst Frans Cronje suggested that Trump's remarks might also relate to ongoing violence against farmers in South Africa, affecting both Black and White landowners. He pointed out that commercial farmers face a significantly higher risk of violent attacks compared to the general population.