Mass protests demanding the expulsion of undocumented migrants in South Africa have led to violent clashes, looting, and arrests in major cities, marking a tense political climate ahead of upcoming elections.

On June 30, large-scale protests erupted across major South African cities, including Johannesburg, Durban, Pretoria, and Cape Town, as demonstrators demanded the immediate departure of undocumented migrants. The marches, organized by the citizen movement ‘March and March,’ were marked by violent incidents, including attacks on foreign nationals from other African countries and the looting of homes and businesses owned by migrants. In Johannesburg, several migrant-run establishments were stormed and plundered, while in the province of Kwazulu-Natal, police arrested ten individuals for looting and burglary. The protests come amid heightened tensions surrounding immigration and economic challenges in the country.

The ‘March and March’ movement, led by Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, has been vocal in its calls for stricter immigration laws, mass deportations, and tighter border controls. The group claims, without evidence, that undocumented migrants contribute to crime and unemployment in South Africa. According to government data, over 25,000 foreign nationals have either voluntarily left or been deported in recent weeks, with some legal migrants also choosing to return to their home countries out of fear of violence. Demonstrators in Durban were seen wearing traditional Zulu warrior attire, carrying spears, whips, and shields, while a counter-protest against xenophobia took place in Cape Town, drawing a smaller crowd of around 100 participants.

South Africa, the continent’s most industrialized nation, has long been a destination for migrants from neighboring countries and beyond. However, the country faces significant economic challenges, including a 30% unemployment rate, high crime levels, and strained public services. President Cyril Ramaphosa condemned the violence against migrants, stating that scapegoating vulnerable groups is not a solution to complex economic issues. He also announced plans to tighten immigration controls. Several African nations, including Nigeria, Ghana, and Uganda, have organized repatriation efforts for their citizens, while thousands from countries like Malawi and Mozambique await departure in government-run centers. The protests and violence come just weeks ahead of South Africa’s municipal elections scheduled for November 6, adding to the already tense political atmosphere.