‘Leave by September 30’: South African Protesters Issue Fresh Ultimatum to Undocumented Migrants

By Taibat Ummi Yakubu

Protesters in South Africa have issued an ultimatum to undocumented migrants in the country, demanding that they leave by September 30 or face potentially larger demonstrations.

The latest threat comes amid a series of weekly protests in Durban, where opposition to undocumented migration has continued to gain momentum in recent months.

March and March leader, Sphelele Shinga, said activists were mobilising communities ahead of the September 30 demonstration, which he described as a major campaign to defend South African communities and the country’s interests.

Shinga claimed the next protest could attract as many as 1.5 million people, saying participants intended to “write another history” by demanding the departure of undocumented migrants from South Africa.

The planned demonstration has raised concerns over the possibility of renewed tensions and large-scale street protests in Durban, following months of demonstrations linked to migration and social pressures.

Meanwhile, some refugees and migrants caught up in the protests have raised concerns about their safety.

Princess Adjei, a Ghanaian refugee, said the group could no longer remain exposed on the streets, stressing that prolonged uncertainty had already resulted in deaths.

Advertisement

She said the refugees were waiting for buses while authorities continued the process of verifying their documentation.

The situation has also drawn intervention from peace activists, including Ela Gandhi, a former member of Parliament and granddaughter of anti-apartheid icon Mahatma Gandhi.

Gandhi criticised the rhetoric surrounding the protests, rejecting claims that migrants were responsible for the problems being highlighted by activists.

The September 30 deadline has consequently intensified concerns over a possible escalation of tensions between anti-migration protesters, undocumented migrants and refugee communities in Durban.

With activists promising a significantly larger mobilisation, the coming weeks are expected to test efforts to prevent further unrest while addressing concerns over migration, documentation and pressure on local communities.