Thousands of South Africans took to the streets on Tuesday in coordinated anti-immigration protests, demanding that undocumented foreign nationals leave the country following a June 30 deadline set by activist groups, despite the South African government making it clear that the deadline has no legal backing.
The demonstrations were held in several major cities, including Johannesburg, Durban and Pretoria, with protesters accusing undocumented immigrants of contributing to unemployment, crime and pressure on public services.
Many marchers carried South African flags and placards calling for stricter immigration enforcement.
Authorities deployed additional police officers nationwide to prevent violence after weeks of rising tension and isolated attacks linked to anti-immigrant sentiment.
Businesses owned by foreign nationals closed temporarily in several areas, while some migrants sought refuge or left the country voluntarily amid fears of attacks.
The June 30 deadline was announced by citizen-led anti-immigration groups, including the “March and March” movement, but South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs has repeatedly stated that it is unofficial and warned the public against misinformation suggesting it was a government directive.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has acknowledged public concerns over illegal immigration while condemning acts of xenophobia and violence. He urged citizens to pursue lawful means of addressing immigration issues and warned against taking the law into their own hands.
Human rights organisations and several African governments have expressed concern over the safety of foreign nationals in South Africa as reports indicate that thousands of migrants have already departed or are seeking evacuation due to escalating tensions.
The protests revive memories of previous outbreaks of xenophobic violence that have periodically affected South Africa over the past two decades, prompting renewed calls for stronger protection of migrants and peaceful resolution of immigration concerns.
