Zulu monarch King Misuzulu kaZwelithini has called for restraint and peace as tensions surrounding undocumented migrants continue to rise across South Africa. Speaking at an International Yoga Day event in Durban on Sunday, the king urged citizens to avoid violence and treat foreign nationals with dignity, warning that attacks on migrants are damaging the country’s reputation across the African continent.
His appeal comes as concerns grow ahead of a controversial June 30 deadline set by anti-immigration groups demanding that undocumented foreign nationals leave South Africa. The campaign has sparked fear among migrant communities and prompted government officials, security agencies, and traditional leaders to intervene in an effort to prevent further violence.
Addressing attendees at the event, King Misuzulu expressed concern about the growing hostility directed at foreign nationals. He said many migrants come to South Africa in search of better opportunities and are often driven by poverty and hardship in their home countries.
The king urged South Africans to remember the values of compassion and humanity, emphasizing that poverty should never be used as a justification for violence. He warned that the country’s image is being negatively affected as reports of attacks on migrants spread across Africa.
His comments follow incidents of intimidation and unrest linked to anti-migrant protests in parts of KwaZulu-Natal and other provinces. The situation has attracted international attention, with several African countries taking steps to protect their citizens living in South Africa.
Reports indicate that governments including Nigeria, Ghana, and Malawi have begun assisting nationals who wish to return home due to fears of escalating violence. Ghana has already facilitated the return of hundreds of its citizens, while Nigeria has arranged flights to evacuate some of its nationals from South Africa.
King Misuzulu revealed that he had personally engaged with some of the leading figures associated with the anti-immigration movement. He said he had spoken to activists and community leaders to stress the importance of ensuring that protests remain peaceful and that no lives are lost.
The anti-migrant campaign has gained support from various groups and individuals who argue that illegal immigration contributes to unemployment, crime, and pressure on public services. However, the South African government has distanced itself from calls for undocumented migrants to leave the country by a specific deadline, stating that immigration matters must be handled within the framework of the law.
Authorities have intensified preparations ahead of June 30. Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia recently met senior police officials to review security plans and ensure law enforcement agencies are ready to respond to any potential unrest. Government officials are also engaging provincial leaders and security stakeholders to strengthen coordination and maintain public order.
Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa has acknowledged public concerns about illegal immigration but stressed that South Africa is working diplomatically with other African nations to address migration challenges. He confirmed that special envoys would engage with governments across the continent to discuss the issue.
Labour federations have also entered the debate, warning workers that participation in unlawful protests could have consequences under labour laws.
As the June 30 deadline approaches, calls for calm continue to grow. King Misuzulu’s message has added an influential voice to efforts aimed at preventing violence, encouraging dialogue, and promoting peaceful solutions to one of South Africa’s most sensitive social and political issues.
This rewritten article is approximately 500 words and uses a balanced news-reporting style.
About the Author
