Did South Africa’s ruling party really try to get money from Elon Musk? That’s the striking claim made by Errol Musk, the father of the billionaire entrepreneur, who says the African National Congress (ANC) and President Cyril Ramaphosa allegedly sought support—and even a stake in Musk’s satellite internet venture, Starlink—ahead of the country’s most recent election. But here’s where it gets controversial: Errol Musk insists his son flat-out refused the proposition.
According to Errol’s account on the Truth Report Podcast, the alleged interaction began when President Ramaphosa sent a letter—via Errol Musk—to Elon, asking for financial backing before the election. Errol explained, “Before the vote, Ramaphosa sent me a message to forward to Elon, requesting his support. He expected Elon to respond, but he didn’t. Then, Ramaphosa’s secretary contacted me and told me not to send it after all—but by then, the letter was already on its way.”
At the time, the ANC was under intense pressure. The party’s support had dropped below 50% in the previous national election, forcing it to enter a Government of National Unity that included the opposition Democratic Alliance (DA). This fragile political situation may have inspired the alleged outreach to one of the world’s most influential businessmen.
Errol Musk also revealed that this wasn’t the first time he had acted as an informal link between the South African presidency and Elon Musk. On earlier occasions, he claims to have helped arrange phone conversations between Ramaphosa and his son—though he insists he was never privy to the details of those discussions. Even so, his recent remarks suggest that one of those exchanges may have involved a bold request from the government.
According to Errol, the ANC pushed for an ownership stake in Starlink—first reportedly asking for 30%, then 39%. When that didn’t go anywhere, they allegedly proposed an alternative: a $100 million donation. Errol said bluntly, “You’re talking to the wrong person when you make that kind of demand to Elon. That’s not how he operates. Elon would rather stop the world from spinning than be pressured into something like that.”
The ANC has not yet issued an official response to these claims. IOL, which first reported the story, confirmed that requests for comment had been sent and would update once feedback is received.
This isn’t the first time Elon Musk has publicly criticized the South African government. In past statements, he accused leaders of enacting policies based on race and claimed Starlink wasn’t available in the country because he wasn’t considered “black.” Those remarks drew both outrage and applause—depending on whom you ask.
But this new twist raises bigger questions: If true, what does this say about how political power and private tech empires intersect? And if false, what might motivate such explosive allegations from a father about his famous son’s home country? Should wealthy individuals like Musk be approached for political help at all, or does that cross an ethical line? Let the debate begin—what’s your take?
