DIRCO’s Role In The ‘Not In Our Name’ Controversy
WhatsApp Leaks Reveal DIRCO’s Covert Authorship of “Not in Our Name”
A senior official at South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), Karen Burger, has been identified as the author of the controversial “Not in Our Name” letter — a document signed by 44 Afrikaner academics, theologians, and journalists distancing themselves from claims of Afrikaner persecution under the ANC government.
DIRCO Official’s Role Confirmed
The letter, initially presented as a civic initiative, was revealed through WhatsApp evidence to have been drafted by Burger, who also approached several potential signatories. While Burger initially denied involvement, sources close to the matter confirmed her authorship after the correspondence became public.
Letter Endorsed By Government Figures
Following publication, the “Not in Our Name” letter received public endorsement from the ANC, President Cyril Ramaphosa’s spokesperson, and DIRCO itself. Their support has drawn attention to possible conflicts of interest, given Burger’s senior government position and her department’s subsequent praise for the document.
Public Reaction And Criticism
Critics argue that Burger’s involvement undermines the letter’s portrayal as an independent expression of Afrikaner sentiment. Opposition commentators described the episode as an example of inappropriate state participation in civil discourse, while supporters of the letter maintain it represents a legitimate rejection of divisive rhetoric within the Afrikaner community.
Division Within The Afrikaner Community
The incident has reignited ideological debate among Afrikaners. Some view the letter as a call for unity and moderation, while others interpret it as a political manoeuvre aligning with government narratives on race, property, and security. Analysts note that these divisions reflect broader tensions over national identity and policy direction in post-apartheid South Africa.
Media Coverage And Accusations Of Bias
News24 and other major outlets prominently reported on the letter as a significant development in the Afrikaner discourse. However, independent observers and civic groups have since questioned whether the media sufficiently scrutinised the origins of the initiative before publication.
Ongoing Inquiry
At the time of publication, DIRCO has not issued a formal statement addressing the ethical implications of Burger’s involvement. Requests for comment from Burger and several signatories went unanswered. It remains unclear whether any internal review will be conducted.
Please sign the counter-letter to that of the “Prominent” Afrikaners: Change.org.
