The South African President has issued a stark warning to vigilante groups targeting foreign nationals, declaring that the state will not tolerate lawlessness. Speaking from Pretoria, the President condemned recent attacks on migrants in Johannesburg and Durban, which have left at least five dead and dozens injured.
The unrest, driven by rhetoric linking migration to crime and unemployment, has prompted the deployment of additional police units. “We are a nation built on the principle of ubuntu,” the President said. “Those who take the law into their own hands will face the full might of our justice system.”
The United Kingdom has expressed support for the South African government’s stance. In a statement, the Foreign Office reaffirmed London’s commitment to the rule of law and praised South Africa as a “cornerstone of the Commonwealth”. A spokesperson noted that the UK stood ready to assist in restoring order if requested.
The crisis poses a test for South Africa’s democratic institutions. Analysts note that the country’s constitution guarantees equal protection for all residents, regardless of nationality. However, xenophobic violence has recurred in cycles since the end of apartheid, fuelled by economic inequality and political opportunism.
The President’s response has drawn a mixed reaction. Some civil society groups have welcomed the firm language but called for concrete action to address the root causes of the violence. Others have criticised the administration for failing to prevent the attacks earlier.
For the Commonwealth, the stability of its largest African member remains a strategic concern. The UK’s swift backing reflects a broader interest in upholding international norms around migration and human rights. As one diplomat put it, “If South Africa falters, the ripple effects would be felt across the region.”
