South African politician seeks US refuge on fears of future persecution

A 56-year-old Freedom Front Plus council member, SJ Du Venage, has sold his home and applied to a U.S. refugee program created under Trump, saying long‑held fears for white South Africans drove his decision.
The U.S. has admitted over 6,000 South Africans since last year and recently raised the annual cap to 17,500 to allow more to enter — a move South Africa calls controversial and says mischaracterizes widespread conditions.
Surveys and experts counter the “white victimhood” narrative, finding most white South Africans report feeling safe and having good living conditions, and critics say the issue is being amplified politically.