Police deployed in South Africa amid rising anti-immigrant protests nationwide

Protests Erupt Across South Africa as Anti-Migrant Groups Demand Departure

Demonstrators gathered in cities across South Africa on Monday, with anti-migrant groups calling for undocumented foreigners to leave the country by Tuesday. The protesters, which included both working-class and middle-class South Africans from diverse backgrounds, claimed that they were frustrated with the government’s handling of immigration issues.

According to reports, police have been deployed to maintain order as businesses in some areas were shuttered due to demonstrations. Some protesters attempted to break windows and cause commotion, prompting a response from law enforcement. One group was seen heading towards a major highway, while another set fire to a dumpster area where homeless people reside.

The government has rejected claims made by anti-migrant groups that undocumented immigrants will face arrest and deportation if they do not leave the country by Tuesday. President Cyril Ramaphosa stated that the right to protest does not allow individuals to threaten or intimidate others.

Thousands of foreign nationals have been affected by the protests, with some camping outside consulates and shelters for protection. Others have reported being evicted or fired due to concerns about fines or attacks. Several African countries have sent aircraft and buses to repatriate their fleeing nationals.

The protests are part of a larger trend of anti-immigrant violence in South Africa, which has seen at least two Mozambicans, an Ethiopian, and a Malawian killed in recent weeks. The country’s November elections have also contributed to the increase in anti-immigrant rhetoric from some politicians.

Source: Al Jazeera