South Africa's Durban faces anti-foreigner protests as migrants flee violence

South Africa’s capital cities were on edge this Tuesday as more than 2,000 anti‑foreigner protesters marched through Durban’s city centre, marking the day the government’s arbitrary deadline for undocumented migrants to leave the country had passed. The demonstration came amid a weeks‑long campaign against foreigners that has already claimed at least four lives and forced tens of thousands to flee for safety.

In Durban, where authorities had warned of potential violence, the streets were unusually quiet. Shops were shuttered and a palpable tension hung over the city as protesters held signs and chants against immigration. The march underscored the growing frustration among segments of the population, while the broader national protests reflected widespread anger over the country’s immigration policies and the perceived threat to jobs and security.

The crackdown on undocumented migrants and the surge of anti‑immigration sentiment have put the South African government under intense scrutiny. As the country grapples with the fallout, officials face mounting pressure to address the humanitarian and security concerns that have fueled the protests, while ensuring that the rights of all residents are respected.