South African Separatist Group's Controversial Land Claim Faces Backlash

The Boervolk, a South African separatist group, citing Trump's Greenland proposal, claims land in KwaZulu-Natal based on historical agreements with Zulu kings. Despite historical conflicts and Britain's past annexation, the group's bid reflects ongoing tensions around land ownership in South Africa, casting doubts on legal standing and public acceptance.

In a bold move echoing international dynamics, a white separatist group from South Africa has staked a claim to land historically tied to Dutch settlers and the Zulu empire. The Boervolk of the Orange Free State drew inspiration from U.S. President Donald Trump's controversial Greenland acquisition remarks.

This claim comes amid rising tension over land ownership in South Africa, a legacy of colonial and apartheid-era policies. The Boervolk, referencing U.N. precedents for colonial independence, argues for their right to land near KwaZulu-Natal based on 19th-century agreements with Zulu royalty that predate British acquisition in the Boer war.

While one separatist group has established a community, official responses from the South African land reform department remain elusive. The legal and historical basis of the Boervolk's claim is contentious, with critics pointing to the nuanced history of land seizure and cultural interpretations of property rights.

(With inputs from agencies.)