Ramaphosa Rejects Xenophobia Claims, Says South Africa Remains Welcoming Country

President Cyril Ramaphosa has pushed back against accusations that South Africa is xenophobic, calling such descriptions “lazy,” as public protests over undocumented migrants continue in parts of the country.

The statement was delivered by presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya on Wednesday in Cape Town amid rising anti-immigration demonstrations.

Protests involving groups such as Operation Dudula and other political actors have increasingly targeted undocumented migration, demanding stricter enforcement of immigration laws and action against employers of illegal migrants. Some demonstrations have turned violent in the past.

Magwenya said Ramaphosa addressed the issue during a meeting with Mozambique President Daniel Chapo in Genadendal.

“The matter was discussed yesterday between President Chapo and President Ramaphosa, and they both agreed that, number one, South Africa is not xenophobic. South Africans are not xenophobic,” he said, citing IOL.

He added that immigration pressures are a global issue.

“Immigration is a pressure point, not only here in South Africa, but throughout the world where protests are held on these issues,” Magwenya said.

He emphasised that protests must remain peaceful and within constitutional limits.

“The President expects law enforcement to also play its role to prevent any acts of violence against any individual.”

According to him, both leaders agreed African countries must work together to address root causes of migration.

“The continent needs to work together to address the issues that are behind these levels of migration that we see across our continent.”

He pointed to conflict and instability as key factors driving migration.

Magwenya said African responses should focus on solutions rather than condemnation.

“There should also be willingness to constructively engage on what are these issues and factors behind people seeking to leave their countries of birth and seeking refuge elsewhere.”

Reaffirming South Africa’s stance, he said:

“South Africa is a welcoming country. South Africans are open, friendly, and warm people. And we will reject any notion that seeks to characterize this country or its people as being xenophobic.”

He dismissed some criticism as overly simplistic.

“Any characterization… is actually a lazy sort of analysis of the real issues that are at play here.”

He also acknowledged concerns about crime involving foreign nationals but stressed legal enforcement.

“Crimes that are committed by foreign nationals… they will face the full might of the law… without fear or favor.”

The remarks come amid diplomatic concern from countries including Nigeria and Ghana, with Nigeria advising its citizens in South Africa to exercise caution and arranging voluntary return for over 100 nationals.

Meanwhile, the Police Ministry reiterated its stance against violence.

“The South African Police Service will act decisively and without hesitation in addressing incidents of violence against foreign nationals,” spokesperson Kamogelo Mogotsi said.

She urged cooperation between communities and authorities to prevent further unrest and promote peaceful dialogue.

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