Thousands of South Africans took to the streets on Tuesday as an unofficial deadline issued by anti immigrant groups for undocumented foreign nationals to leave the country expired, raising fears of fresh violence and deepening concerns over growing xenophobic tensions.
The nationwide demonstrations were organised by a movement known as March and March, which has been campaigning for months for the removal of undocumented migrants from South Africa. Protesters gathered in several major cities, carrying placards, chanting slogans and demanding stricter immigration enforcement. Many accused undocumented foreigners of taking jobs, increasing crime and placing additional pressure on public services, although researchers and migration experts have consistently argued that there is little evidence to support these claims.
Ahead of the protests, thousands of foreign nationals had already fled their homes or sought refuge in churches, community shelters and their respective consulates, fearing possible attacks similar to previous waves of xenophobic violence that have scarred the country over the years. Several businesses also shut their doors while many migrant workers stayed away from work in anticipation of unrest.
Although many of the demonstrations remained peaceful, reports from parts of Johannesburg, Durban, Soweto and other communities indicated incidents of looting, clashes between protesters and police, and attacks on properties believed to belong to foreign nationals. Security agencies deployed thousands of officers across the country, while the military remained on standby to prevent widespread violence and maintain public order.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa acknowledged public concerns over illegal immigration but firmly condemned any form of violence or intimidation against foreign nationals. He stressed that while citizens have the constitutional right to protest, such rights do not extend to vandalism, harassment or attacks on individuals. Authorities also revealed that more than 100 criminal cases have already been opened against vigilante groups accused of targeting migrants since the latest wave of anti immigrant activities began earlier this year.
The renewed protests have attracted criticism from human rights organisations and several African governments, who argue that both documented and undocumented migrants have become victims of indiscriminate attacks. Many observers also fear the growing anti immigrant rhetoric could further strain South Africa’s relations with neighbouring countries and undermine its reputation as a nation committed to human rights and African solidarity.
South Africa continues to battle high unemployment, poverty and economic inequality, factors that many analysts believe have fuelled resentment towards migrants. However, experts insist that blaming foreign nationals for the country’s socio economic challenges oversimplifies far more complex issues that require broader economic and governance solutions.
As the protests continue, authorities have appealed for calm while promising to enforce immigration laws within the limits of the law and protect everyone living in the country, regardless of nationality.
