South Africa Will Defend Itself At AU Over Claims Of Xenophobic Attacks, Says Cabinet

Cabinet of South Africa says the country is prepared to provide a report to the African Union regarding protests linked to undocumented foreigners in South Africa.

Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said while protests may be taking place legally, government does not regard the incidents as xenophobic attacks.

Ntshavheni was responding to reports that the government of Ghana had formally requested the AU to place the matter on the agenda for its upcoming heads of state meeting.

Cabinet Rejects Claims Of Xenophobic Violence

Speaking during Thursday’s post-Cabinet briefing, Ntshavheni said South Africa’s immigration laws must be respected and enforced.

She added that law enforcement agencies should be allowed to carry out their responsibilities while warning that attacks on individuals would not be tolerated.

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Ntshavheni also acknowledged that countries have the right to issue advisories to citizens if there are concerns around safety.

“Our position is that we have nothing to hide as the South African government. We will provide if the AU decides to put the matter on the agenda. We will provide the report, including the facts that there are no xenophobic attacks in South Africa,” she said.

South African Government Reaffirms Illegal Immigration Measures

Ntshavheni said Cabinet had again reaffirmed efforts aimed at addressing illegal immigration in the country.

According to her, measures include strengthening border management systems, accelerating deportation processes and tackling criminal activity linked to undocumented immigration.

Government has maintained that enforcement operations should continue within the framework of the law.