African billionaire apologises for saying continent loves US President Donald Trump
- Businessman Patrice Motsepe was slammed for speaking on the continent’s behalf after his remarks to US president went viral
- South African leaders argued the billionaire’s views did not represent those of the government or the continent at large
- Mzansi further argued Motsepe who is a brother-in-law to the country's president had been motivated by selfish business interests
- Recognised for being the only black billionaire in South Africa, he said the debate over his remarks had exposed him to different views
A South African business mogul has been forced to apologise after claiming that the president of the United States of America (USA) is dearly loved by Africans.
Patrice Motsepe was slammed by South African leaders for speaking on behalf of the continent after a video of him making the remarks to the US president went viral.
According to BBC, South Africa's opposition Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) said Motsepe had been motivated by selfish business interests.
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In a statement released on Tuesday, January 28, the tycoon said the debate over his remarks had exposed him to different views.
“I have a duty to listen to these differing views and would like to apologize,” Motsepe was quoted.
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“I do not have the right to speak on behalf of anybody except myself," he added
The business mogul further said his remarks were partly aimed at encouraging discussions between the Trump administration and African political leaders.
According to him, feedback from certain American political and business leaders showed that South Africa and some African countries were anti-America and its political leadership.
"This perception has had an impact on our ability to attract foreign investments and create jobs," he said.
Motsepe, the country’s only black billionaire and a brother-in-law of President Cyril Ramaphosa, had praised Trump at a dinner in Davos, Switzerland on Thursday, January 23.
“Africa loves America. Africa loves you. It is very, very important. We want America to do well. We want you to do well. The success of America is the success of the rest of the world," he said.
In response to Motsepe’s introduction, Trump thanked him while telling him that he had done a great job.
Trump has been criticised for his comments about the continent, including one comparing African nations to a dirty latrine, which led to widespread anger.
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Further reports show that he is considering a proposal to extend travel restrictions to four African countries including Nigeria.
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