Why Elon Musk Should be Boycotted, as Seen From South Africa

South Africa’s debate over Elon Musk has sharpened around his Starlink involvement and local rules tied to “Black Economic Empowerment.” The article contrasts Musk with Nelson Mandela’s 1994 democracy campaign, arguing Mandela’s model was built on “one person, one vote” while Musk represents what the author describes as techno-feudal, crisis-prone capitalism. The central dispute is Musk’s stance on Starlink licensing, where the author says he must find an indigenous co-investor but refuses, citing “sole ownership of all our subsidiaries.” The piece also claims Musk’s messaging and X.com ownership fed into broader political opposition to South Africa, including Trump-linked rhetoric.