Bongani Ndlovu
Zimpapers Reporter
ANC Secretary General, Fikile Mbalula, has condemned recent anti-immigrant vigilantism and what he described as growing threats of violence linked to xenophobic sentiment.
Speaking at a media briefing in Johannesburg on Tuesday, Mr Mbalula said citizens in a democratic society have the right to criticise government and express frustration over the handling of undocumented migrants but warned that such freedoms must not extend to incitement of violence.
“In a democratic state, you can express your views and criticise government for its ineptness in dealing with matters of illegal immigrants,” he said.
“But you must not call for violence in our country.”
Mr Mbalula referenced past incidents of unrest, including the July 2021 riots in South Africa, which saw widespread looting and destruction in parts of Johannesburg and KwaZulu-Natal, and resulted in over 400 deaths.
“These people who call for violence must remember what happened during the June and July unrest,” Mr Mbalula said.
“We saw looting, destruction and loss of life. More than 400 South Africans died. We will never support anarchic activities.”
He further warned against public figures and commentators who, in his view, issue ultimatums or threats on national television, saying such behaviour risks destabilising the country and endangering innocent lives.
Mr Mbalula said the South African government would not tolerate any form of incitement and indicated that an official statement detailing the state’s position would follow.
Online Reporter