South African law requires that 30% of the company's capital belongs to black South African citizens. “This law is shameful,” said Musk. The US President's advisor himself was born in South Africa and lived there until he was 17.
"Starlink can operate in South Africa provided local rights are respected. This is simply a global rule of global trade and investment. Over 600 American companies invest and operate in South Africa... they all obey laws and prosper!” Monyela explained.
Musk accused the South African authorities of racism just a day after the Canadian government cancelled a $100 million contract with his company. “We are breaking Ontario’s contract with Starlink. It's over. It's over. We will not grant contracts to people who let and encourage economical attacks on our state and our country, as explained by Canadian provincial Prime Minister Doug Ford, referring to the 25 percent import duties imposed by president Donald Trump on Thursday.
