Security Measures Intensify as Anti-Migrant Protests Approach
South Africa has deployed extensive security personnel nationwide amid concerns that upcoming anti-immigration protests may escalate into violence. This comes as President Cyril Ramaphosa urged participants to conduct demonstrations peacefully, without "intimidation, threats or ultimatums." The protests coincide with an unofficial deadline set by campaigners calling for all undocumented migrants to leave the country.
Many undocumented migrants have already fled due to violence and intimidation. South African police report that approximately 25,000 individuals, primarily from other African nations, have been repatriated so far.
"I am happy to be going back," said one undocumented Malawian migrant to the BBC, "but heartbroken to be leaving behind four young children."
In Johannesburg, where one of the protests is scheduled, the area remains unusually quiet with all shops near the planned gathering point closed.
President Ramaphosa has consistently called for peaceful and responsible demonstrations while acknowledging the necessity for immigration reforms. In his weekly newsletter, he emphasized:
"Some foreign nationals who live in South Africa are here lawfully. They work, study, raise families, invest in our economy and contribute positively to our society. They too are entitled to the protection of our laws and our Constitution.
"The right to protest and freedom of expression does not allow people to threaten or intimidate others, or to engage in acts of vandalism or violence."
Official figures indicate that South Africa hosts over three million documented foreign nationals.
As the deadline nears, thousands of migrants have been awaiting processing in temporary camps for several weeks, fearing for their safety.
Transit Camps and Repatriations in Durban
In Durban, which has experienced some of the largest protests, authorities are dismantling white tents housing mostly Malawian migrants as they expedite clearing the transit camp.
Women dressed in colorful sarongs sat atop their belongings, waiting in line to board buses home to Malawi.
"I came to South Africa seeking employment to support my family in Malawi," said Nelson Mbewe. "But we've faced challenges - they're saying we should go back home because we do not have the right documents.
"They say we are Makwerekwere," Mbewe added, referring to a xenophobic slur used against African migrants from other countries. "It's their country, so what can we do? That's why we have accepted that we just have to [unwillingly] go back home."
Hassan Phiri, a Malawian still awaiting processing, conveyed a message to the protesters: "All I want to say to South Africans is that we are all one. No matter what is happening, no matter what will happen, Africa must remain Africa.
"Africa can't be Africa without South Africa... without Malawi, without anywhere," he said. "So whatever will happen, we must love each other and stick together as Africa."
Protests and Government Response
Anti-migrant marches have been authorized for Tuesday in Durban, Johannesburg, and other cities. Authorities have instructed organizers to prevent violence but remain prepared for any potential disruptions.
The police have prohibited traditional weapons, which may cause tension since many protesters are ethnic Zulus who customarily carry shields, whips, and sticks during marches.
Since the protests began earlier this year, the government reports that over 12,000 immigrants have been deported or repatriated.
Countries including Ghana, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria, and Zimbabwe have coordinated repatriations by air or bus in recent weeks, with approximately 3,500 foreigners volunteering to leave.
South African authorities state that more than 500 Nigerians repatriated lacked proper documentation, a claim disputed by Nigeria.
Historical Context and Xenophobia in South Africa
Xenophobia has been a persistent issue in South Africa, occasionally resulting in violence. According to the African Centre for Migration and Society's (ACMS) xenophobic violence tracker Xenowatch, two people have died this year due to such violence.
In 2008, over 60 people lost their lives during a wave of riots targeting non-South Africans.
Additional Resources
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