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U.S. Ambassador's "Kill the Boer" Remarks Spark South Africa Backlash

3/12/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Leo Brent Bozell III, the U.S. ambassador to South Africa, labeled the apartheid-era chant "Kill the Boer" as hate speech, triggering a diplomatic backlash.
South Africa's court ruled the chant was not hate speech.
South Africa's Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola summoned Bozell to explain his remarks.
Bozell expressed regret and said his views were personal.

History

Historical Context

South Africa's transition from apartheid to democracy began in 1990 when President F.W. de Klerk announced reforms, including the unbanning of the African National Congress (ANC) and the release of Nelson Mandela. The first multiracial elections occurred on April 27, 1994, resulting in the ANC winning 62% of the vote and Mandela becoming the first Black president, highlighting ongoing racial tensions and the complexities of reconciliation.

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Story summary

Leo Brent Bozell III, the U.S. ambassador to South Africa, labeled the apartheid-era chant "Kill the Boer" as hate speech, triggering a diplomatic backlash.
South Africa's court ruled the chant was not hate speech.
South Africa's Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola summoned Bozell to explain his remarks.
Bozell expressed regret and said his views were personal.

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