Ramaphosa rejects xenophobia claims amid rising anti-migrant protests in South Africa

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has dismissed claims that the country is xenophobic, describing such characterisations as “lazy” amid ongoing protests targeting undocumented foreign nationals.

His spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya, made the remarks on Wednesday in Cape Town as anti-migrant demonstrations continue to spread across parts of the country.

The protests, involving groups such as Operation Dudula and some political actors, have focused on undocumented migration, with calls for stricter border enforcement, tighter visa controls, and action against businesses allegedly employing irregular migrants. Some of the demonstrations have previously turned violent.

Magwenya said Ramaphosa discussed the issue with Mozambican President Daniel Chapo during a meeting in Genadendal, where both leaders agreed that South Africa should not be labelled xenophobic.

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

He acknowledged that immigration remains a sensitive issue globally, noting that protests over migration pressures are not unique to South Africa.

Magwenya stressed that while protests are allowed under the constitution, they must remain peaceful, warning that law enforcement will act against any violence directed at foreign nationals.

He said both leaders also agreed that African countries must collaborate to address the root causes of migration, including conflict, instability, and governance challenges across the continent.

“The issues behind people seeking to leave their countries of birth and seeking refuge elsewhere must be constructively engaged,” he said.

Reaffirming South Africa’s position, Magwenya said the country remains open and welcoming to foreigners but expects all residents, including visitors, to obey its laws.

“The President emphasised that South Africa is a welcoming country. South Africans are open, friendly, and warm people,” he said.

He added that crimes involving foreign nationals must be addressed by law enforcement without bias, while insisting that offenders will face the full weight of the law regardless of nationality.

The Police Ministry reiterated its condemnation of violence against foreign nationals, stating that such actions violate the country’s democratic values of dignity, equality, and human rights.

Authorities have also called on community leaders and civil society groups to work with law enforcement to prevent further violence and promote peaceful dialogue.