Refugees Fear For Their Safety Ahead Of June 30 Anti-Illegal Immigration Protests

A refugee advocacy organisation has warned that fear and uncertainty are mounting among refugees and asylum seekers as South Africa prepares for nationwide anti-illegal immigration protests on Tuesday, 30 June.

The demonstrations, organised by groups including March and March, aim to pressure the government to strengthen border controls and deport undocumented foreign nationals.

While organisers insist the protests will be peaceful and focused on illegal immigration, authorities have placed law enforcement agencies on high alert amid concerns over possible violence.

Refugee Group Says June 30 Protests Have Created Fear

The Southern Africa Refugee Organisation Forum (SAROF) says many refugees, asylum seekers and stateless people are deeply concerned about their safety.

Speaking to Jacaranda FM Newswatch, SAROF representative Shomari Mukandwa said uncertainty has left many people unsure of what to do.

“The mood is very mixed. Many people, particularly refugees and asylum seekers, as well as stateless people, do not know where to go and what to do.”

Mukandwa said the anxiety has been fuelled by recent anti-foreigner demonstrations in several parts of the country.

“It started with the protests we have witnessed across Durban, Johannesburg, Pretoria and many other places where people have been violently beaten. The mood among refugees and asylum seekers is very, very confusing and concerning, and many are leaving the country as we speak.”

SAROF Raises Concerns Over Refugee Safety And Home Affairs Delays

Mukandwa claimed refugees who become victims of attacks often face difficulties when seeking protection from law enforcement.

“The concerns are about their safety and their protection. Police are a state agent. Their job is to protect and maintain law and order. Once law and order are no longer taking that charge and letting people take charge of police work, it becomes a concerning issue.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Woman Arrested At OR Tambo Airport After Allegedly Smuggling Drug Capsules Bound For Tokyo

“Whenever a foreign national wants to open a case, they are requested to bring much evidence, including a photograph of the person and the person’s name.”

He also criticised administrative delays at the Department of Home Affairs, arguing that some asylum seekers lose their legal status despite applying to renew their permits on time.

“People are being rendered illegal in the country, not because they wish to be illegal, but because the government has taken a position of rendering those who are documented undocumented.”

The Department of Home Affairs has previously acknowledged challenges within the asylum system and has introduced reforms aimed at improving immigration management.

Government Urges Peace Ahead Of Anti-Illegal Immigration Demonstrations

The government has reiterated that peaceful protest is protected under the Constitution but warned that violence, intimidation and vigilantism will not be tolerated.

Mukandwa acknowledged that some foreign nationals may be involved in criminal activity but said refugees and documented migrants should not be blamed collectively.

He argued that public frustration over crime, unemployment and poor service delivery should be directed at state institutions rather than refugees.

Appealing for calm, Mukandwa called for engagement instead of confrontation.

“Where is the room for negotiation? Where is the room for dialogue?”