Anti-migrant demonstrators clad in flags and brandishing makeshift weapons paraded through urban centers in South Africa on Tuesday to commemorate a self-imposed deadline for undocumented migrants to depart, resulting in some marches marred by violence and looting. Prior to the specified “deadline,” numerous African foreign nationals had already left South Africa, prompting the closure of shops and the absence of foreign workers in anticipation of further unrest following months of turmoil that drew international criticism.
Incidents of violence have led to the deaths of at least four individuals, with thousands of foreigners forcibly displaced from their residences and witnessing their businesses and assets being vandalized. The leader of the anti-immigrant movement vowed to conduct weekly processions until their demands are satisfied.
Jacinta Ngobese, the head of the March and March group in Durban, articulated the group’s call for national resources to be utilized over the next six months to expel illegal immigrants from the country, emphasizing a comprehensive removal strategy from various premises. At a demonstration in the city, Silindile Xaba, 31, joined the chorus of anti-migrant slogans, expressing concerns about job opportunities being seized by undocumented foreigners.
The xenophobic sentiments have been exacerbated by political figures aiming to capitalize on anti-immigrant sentiments to secure votes in upcoming local elections scheduled by November. The pervasive fear among migrants of the imposed deadline has occasionally escalated into acts of violence, although the majority of marches have remained peaceful. Law enforcement authorities reported the arrest of several looters but refrained from providing further details.
In various locations such as Thembisa and Soweto, clashes between rioters, suspected migrants, and police have erupted, with instances of gunfire and property looting reported. The March and March group, while advocating for anti-migrant sentiments, disavowed responsibility for spontaneous acts of violence by South African citizens, emphasizing their inability to control every community’s behavior.
The escalating tensions have led to illegal evictions of foreign tenants by landlords in Durban and Johannesburg for fear of property damage. The demonstrations have attracted a large number of impoverished and unemployed South Africans blaming foreign nationals for their economic struggles. Extensive police deployment and military preparedness have been enforced, tarnishing South Africa’s reputation as a human rights advocate post-Nelson Mandela and straining diplomatic relations with neighboring African nations.
Allegations against immigrants for job displacement, increased crime rates, and strain on public services have been refuted by social scientists for lacking substantial evidence. Despite being Africa’s largest economy and maintaining a relatively low immigrant population compared to global standards, South Africa grapples with persistent economic inequality and high unemployment rates, contributing to ongoing social tensions.
Law enforcement officials have taken legal action against anti-foreigner vigilantes and emphasized the state’s responsibility to ensure peaceful demonstrations. While acknowledging public concerns over illegal immigration, President Cyril Ramaphosa condemned acts of violence and vandalism, underscoring the importance of peaceful protest without intimidation or threats. South African authorities have pointed out parallels with immigration challenges faced by Western countries, often exacerbated by divisive politics and misinformation.