"Well Done, Soldier": South Africans Mourn Charlie Kirk at US Embassy in Pretoria As Mzansi Reacts
- South Africans gathered outside the US Embassy in Pretoria to mourn American conservative commentator Charlie Kirk after his tragic death
- The tribute sparked a discussion online about global solidarity and the impact of Kirk's views beyond the US
- Authorities are investigating the shooting and have released a video of the suspect found with the firearm used in the attack
A surprising scene unfolded outside the United States Embassy in Pretoria as South Africans gathered to mourn American political commentator Charlie Kirk, who was shot on Wednesday, 10 September 2025, at an event at Utah Valley University.
Source: UGC
He was speaking to a large crowd at an outdoor "Prove Me Wrong" debate, where he invited students to challenge his political and cultural views. His sudden and tragic death has sparked worldwide news, with many reacting with mixed feelings.
Social media user @angry.birb.lady posted photos of people who were seen placing flowers, candles, and handwritten notes at the embassy gates. The small but emotional display resembled a vigil, with attendees bowing their heads in silence and some appearing visibly moved.
According to the post, the gesture was a way of paying tribute to the father of two, whose speeches and commentaries had reached audiences far beyond the US. Messages left at the site expressed gratitude and admiration for the right-wing American conservative political activist.
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The unusual tribute has sparked discussion online, with many expressing surprise that a figure so closely tied to US politics had made an impact in South Africa. Some users praised the gesture as a show of global solidarity, while others debated the appropriateness of mourning a foreign commentator in such a public way.
For now, the embassy grounds remain a focal point for those wishing to honour Charlie, with flowers and notes continuing to pile up at its entrance.
Following the shooting, authorities posted pictures of a "person of interest" throughout the day and requested assistance from the public in identifying the person.
Late on Thursday, 11 September 2025, they released a video showing the suspect descending from a roof. Investigators have found the firearm used in the shooting and have "good video footage" of the suspect, according to a law enforcement official, CBS News reported.
Vice President JD Vance's aircraft carried Charlie's remains back to his native Arizona on Thursday. Both Democrats and Republicans promptly criticised acts of political violence and condemned the attack after President Donald Trump paid his respects to Charlie.
Netizens react as South Africans mourn Charlie Kirk
Social media users flooded the comments section, sharing their thoughts on South Africans mourning the American politician.
Sharline said:
"Respect and salute your courage and faith in the Lord, Jesus Christ, the Truth. Well done, soldier."
Nikki added:
"This is beautiful."
Migs expressed:
"All good but honest South Africa worries about every other country's people but not their own, who are dying.:
Annemarie replied
"RIP Charlie, U'll forever be loved and remembered."
Jessicawynne151 commented:
"That's why I love my country, we have some great people here."
Watch the video below:
Source: Getty Images
More stories about American activist Charlie Kirk
- Briefly News reported that a resurfaced video of Charlie Kirk, the conservative political activist and author who was tragically shot at Utah Valley University, has reignited online interest as he shared his thoughts on how he hoped to be remembered.
- The EFF party expressed alarm over gun-related incidents in the United States in the statement released on Thursday, September 11, 2025, and said that Kirk was a fervent supporter of unfettered access to firearms.
- A past video of Charlie Kirk explaining his stance on the right to own a gun despite the dangers went viral. Online users shared their thoughts on the clip in the context of the way he died on 10 September 2025.
Source: Briefly News
