Cape Town – AfriForum Youth has described the murder of American conservative activist Charlie Kirk as a “wake-up call” to the world, warning that intolerance towards conservative voices is becoming a dangerous global trend.
Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, was shot and killed on Tuesday while speaking at a debate at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. The activist was struck in the neck by a bullet fired from a rooftop in what authorities believe was a targeted political attack.
In Pretoria, AfriForum Youth members gathered at the US Embassy where they laid a wreath in Kirk’s honour. In their tribute, they emphasised his impact on young conservatives and framed his death as symbolic of wider struggles faced by right-leaning movements.
In its statement, AfriForum Youth praised Kirk’s legacy, saying he was remembered for his “unwavering faith and steadfast character,” qualities they said inspired young conservatives worldwide.
“Kirk has proven through his debates, especially with young people of diverse schools of thought, that the conservative voice must be heard and that well-founded arguments will prevail in a world where a woke agenda is often imposed on young people.”
AfriForum Youth’s message to the family of Charlie Kirk:
“AfriForum Youth expresses our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of Charlie Kirk after his tragic death by assassination on September 10th, 2025.
Charlie was well-known for his talent and skillfulness at… pic.twitter.com/dikZJY65G9
— Louis Boshoff (@louisbos123) September 11, 2025
The group further praised Kirk’s debating skills and steadfastness under pressure, describing him as a role model for young people who resist what the group called the imposition of a “woke agenda.”
“Kirk has proven through his debates, especially with young people of diverse schools of thought, that the conservative voice must be heard and that well-founded arguments will prevail.”
The group’s positioning underscores its efforts to link Kirk’s killing to broader ideological battles. In their statement, AfriForum Youth said Kirk’s “unwavering faith and steadfast character” inspired conservative youth worldwide, and they framed his assassination as a call for vigilance against ideological suppression.
Meanwhile, the FBI has launched a manhunt for the gunman and has offered a $100,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.
Reuters reported that investigators have recovered forensic evidence, including shoe impressions, a palm print, and a forearm imprint, which they believe may help identify the suspect.
The FBI is offering a reward of up to $100,000 for information leading to the identification and arrest of the individual(s) responsible for the murder of Charlie Kirk on September 10, 2025, at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. Contact 1-800-CALL-FBI and submit photos and… pic.twitter.com/ReuzFhdm0H
— FBI (@FBI) September 11, 2025
CBS News noted that more than 7,000 tips have already been submitted to the FBI since the attack, with officials reviewing surveillance footage and questioning witnesses. Authorities have also released images of a person of interest linked to the case.
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Compiled by Lisabeal Nqamqhele
