As South Africa braces for nationwide anti-immigration marches planned for Tuesday 30 June, many foreign nationals say they are gripped by fear and uncertainty over what the day could bring, with some worried the protests could escalate into violence.

For the past few months, groups of anti-immigration protesters, some carrying sticks, have been protesting across the country, chanting “Mabahambe”, a Zulu phrase meaning “They must go.”

Berny Bokemo, a Democratic Republic of Congo national living in Cape Town, said he fears the planned anti-immigration protests could turn violent and leave foreign nationals vulnerable.

“I am scared; we don’t know what will happen. There are people who are going to take chances.”

Bokemo said he has been living in the country for about 10 years.

Calls for stricter border controls

He believes stricter enforcement policies should be implemented at South African borders and immigration offices.

“How do people enter? They enter by the border. People working at the border and immigration offices are corrupt. The question should be asked, how are people allowed to enter without documents?”

Bokemo said many migrants have built lives in the country after fleeing conflict and have lived here for years without their immigration status being resolved.

“I have been here for 10 years. In my country there are wars and fires. Some have been here for 10 to 20 years without documents. How can you tell them they must leave now, when you have not checked (them) for over 20 years.”

Maintaining public safety

Meanwhile, Western Cape police say they are on high alert and ready to respond to any threats to public safety.

Acting Police Minister Prof Firoz Cachalia urged protesters to demonstrate peacefully and warned against criminality, inflammatory social media posts and attempts by citizens to enforce immigration laws themselves.

“The right to protest should not be used as an excuse for criminality and abusive behaviour. Only the police and other officials have the responsibility to enforce the law.”

JP Smith, Mayco member for safety and security, said although there is no confirmed intelligence of a large-scale shutdown or civil unrest, the City is taking a precautionary approach.

“We remain committed to maintaining stability and minimising any potential disruption, particularly given the importance of protecting Cape Town’s reputation as a safe and welcoming destination.

Any unlawful behaviour, including intimidation or violence, will be addressed decisively.”

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