- The government urged citizens to reject xenophobic attacks and vigilantism
- South Africa says it remains welcoming to foreign nationals
- Officials also called for peaceful handling of migration concerns
The South African government has dismissed claims that the country is hostile to foreign nationals, insisting that it remains a welcoming destination for people from different parts of the world despite ongoing migration-related challenges.
Speaking during a briefing by the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Migration, Eko Hot Blog gathered that Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, said South Africa has a long history of accommodating people from diverse backgrounds and should not be broadly characterised as xenophobic.
EDITOR’S PICK
- Federal Lawmaker Yaya Tongo Dies In Abuja Hospital
- Rep. Wale Raji Celebrates Alhaja Aduke Salimot Seriki on Birthday
- Nancy Isime Recalls Alex Ekubo’s Fearless Humor, Generosity at Late Actor’s Tribute
Kubayi, who chairs the committee, stressed that while concerns over migration and pressure on public resources remain subjects of national discussion, such issues should not be used to justify hostility or violence against foreigners.
She urged citizens to reject acts of vigilantism and refrain from taking the law into their own hands, warning that attacks on foreign nationals could undermine social cohesion and deepen divisions within communities.
According to her, not every foreign national living in South Africa is in the country illegally, and residents should avoid making assumptions based on appearance, language, or nationality.
The minister also cautioned the public against spreading misinformation on social media, encouraging communities to work closely with law enforcement agencies when addressing concerns related to immigration and public safety.
Kubayi acknowledged the economic and social pressures linked to migration but maintained that protests over such concerns must remain peaceful and within the limits of the law.
She noted that while citizens have a constitutional right to demonstrate, government would not condone violence, intimidation, or any form of lawlessness during protests.
The minister further warned employers against violating immigration and labour regulations by hiring undocumented workers, stating that authorities would continue to enforce existing laws and hold offenders accountable.
She reiterated the government’s commitment to managing migration through legal channels while protecting the rights of both citizens and lawful foreign residents.
The remarks come amid growing concerns over reports of xenophobic incidents and their impact on South Africa’s international reputation, with officials expressing worries that such perceptions are affecting businesses and cultural engagements involving South Africans abroad.
FURTHER READING
