Ramaphosa Warns Anti-Migrant Marchers Ahead of 12,000 Deportations and Tuesday Deadline
Updated
Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jun 29
Ramaphosa Warns Anti-Migrant Marchers Ahead of 12,000 Deportations and Tuesday Deadline
3 articles · Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jun 29
Summary
Cyril Ramaphosa told anti-migrant protesters to march without threats or intimidation as authorised demonstrations are set for Tuesday in Durban, Johannesburg and other cities.
Several thousand foreign nationals have already left South Africa fearing violence, while migrants in temporary camps await processing and buses home as Durban authorities dismantle white-tent transit sites.
More than 12,000 immigrants have been deported or repatriated since protests surged earlier this year, and about 3,500 others have volunteered to leave through air and bus returns organised by African governments.
Police said traditional weapons will not be allowed at the marches, a potential flashpoint because many protesters are ethnic Zulus who customarily carry shields, sticks and whips.
Xenophobic violence has long shadowed South Africa: Xenowatch says 2 people have been killed this year, after riots in 2008 left more than 60 dead.
With new courts to speed up deportations, can South Africa protect legal migrants from escalating mob violence?
Decades after apartheid, why is a xenophobic slur now driving violence between fellow Africans in South Africa?
As South Africa expels thousands, will its new immigration plan hurt or heal its struggling economy?
South Africa’s June 30 Anti-Immigrant Deadline: Mass Exodus, Xenophobic Violence, and Regional Fallout
Overview
On June 30, 2026, anti-immigrant groups in South Africa set a deadline for migrants to leave, creating an atmosphere of extreme fear among foreign nationals. This action was driven by local frustrations over competition for jobs, public services, and accusations against certain migrant groups. In response, authorities prepared to protect constitutional rights and maintain order, while business and labor organizations urged calm and normalcy. Despite these efforts, violence erupted, leading to tragic deaths and a mass exodus of migrants. The situation exposed deep social tensions and highlighted the need for balanced solutions that respect both security and human rights.