Hundreds of South Africans marched through the streets of Johannesburg on Wednesday to protest against high levels of illegal immigration, a contentious issue that has heightened tensions between local residents and foreign nationals. The demonstration, organized by the anti-immigration group March and March, also drew support from similar organizations such as Operation Dudula and political parties ActionSA and Patriotic Alliance.
Broader Wave of Protests
The Johannesburg march is part of a wider wave of protests across South Africa, including a similar demonstration in the capital, Pretoria, on Tuesday. Anti-immigration groups are calling for the strict enforcement of immigration laws and the mass deportation of undocumented migrants. As one of Africa's most industrialized economies, South Africa attracts migrants—both legal and illegal—seeking economic opportunities.
Shops Close Amid Looting Fears
The protest in Johannesburg led to the closure of many shops, owned by both locals and foreign nationals, due to fears of potential looting or opportunistic crimes. Businesses shuttered their doors as a precautionary measure, reflecting the heightened anxiety surrounding the demonstrations.
Organizers Deny Xenophobia
Themba Mabunda of ActionSA, who participated in the march, stated: "We are not xenophobic, we just want the right thing to be done in South Africa, to put the South African first. We do want to live with foreigners in our country, but those foreigners must be legally in the country." This sentiment echoes the position of many anti-immigration groups, who argue that their focus is on legality rather than nationality.
Contested Migration Figures
Estimates of the number of migrants living illegally in South Africa vary widely, with figures often cited between 3 and 5 million. However, accurate up-to-date statistics are disputed, as many undocumented foreigners lack legal status. Anti-immigration groups contend that illegal immigration leads to urban overcrowding, labor market tensions, loss of tax revenue, and increased crime and border security threats in a country where unemployment exceeds 30%.
Tensions in Public Services
In some instances, anti-migration groups have chased foreign nationals away from public health facilities, alleging that migrants contribute to shortages of medication and overcrowding. These actions have drawn criticism from human rights organizations and the United Nations.
UN Expresses Concern
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres recently expressed concern over reports of xenophobic attacks and acts of harassment and intimidation against migrants and foreign nationals in parts of South Africa, including KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape Province. The UN has called on South African authorities to protect the rights of all individuals, regardless of their immigration status.
Previous Violence
An anti-migration march in Eastern Cape Province last month turned violent, resulting in the torching of minibus taxis and public infrastructure. Additionally, alleged attacks on Ghanaian nationals in KwaZulu-Natal sparked a diplomatic incident, leading South Africa's ambassador to Ghana to be summoned to explain the attacks.
Government Response
South Africa has ramped up immigration enforcement, deporting 109,344 immigrants living in the country illegally over the past two financial years. The government has reiterated its commitment to upholding immigration laws while also emphasizing the importance of protecting the rights of all residents.
