The Migrant Workers Association of Lesotho has appealed for calm across South Africa (SA) as anti-foreigner demonstrations continue, warning that rising violence targeting migrant-owned businesses risks reigniting historical regional tensions.
SA authorities report that over 178 000 African immigrants have departed the country in recent months. The mass departure follows heightened enforcement against undocumented migration alongside persistent anti-immigration protests that erupted in June.
According to the Migrant Workers Association of Lesotho, actions that originally started as public concerns over immigration regulations and local business by-laws have deteriorated into intimidation and mob-led violence against foreign nationals.
Civil society organisations across the Southern African Development Community region have urged authorities to restore order, ensure law enforcement compliance, and protect the rights and safety of all residents.
–Channel Africa–
