Amanze Chinonye
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has vowed to arrest and prosecute those responsible for instigating or carrying out violence against immigrants, saying authorities are gathering evidence and that “there will be arrests”.
Ramaphosa made the pledge during a question-and-answer session in parliament on Tuesday, amid growing concerns over attacks targeting African nationals in South Africa.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelHe said police and security agencies were investigating the violence, collecting reports and evidence against people suspected of organising, inciting or participating in the attacks.
“The issue of the instigators of violent actions that have been taken against people from other countries is a matter that is being processed,” Ramaphosa said.
“The police and security apparatus have informed us that they are following it up, they are gathering all the reports and evidence.”
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Ramaphosa said several people had already been arrested and that police were also investigating individuals identified as leaders of anti-immigrant campaigns.
He said those responsible for violence resulting in injuries or deaths would be held accountable, stressing that criminal cases would be pursued by the police and prosecuting authorities.
“Those who have perpetrated those acts will be followed up, there will be arrests, and there will be charges preferred against those who have done so,” he said.
The remarks followed criticism from Economic Freedom Fighters leader Julius Malema, who questioned why leaders of groups accused of organising xenophobic violence had not been arrested or prosecuted.
Malema said the violence against African foreign nationals had identifiable instigators and perpetrators. He argued that the failure to arrest them risked creating the impression that the attacks were being tolerated or sanctioned by the state.
He also accused some perpetrators of carrying out attacks in the presence of police officers without being arrested.
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Ramaphosa rejected the suggestion that his government endorsed discrimination against foreign nationals, saying South Africa remained committed to its role as a Pan-African state.
“South Africa remains a respected member of the African community of nations and a principled Pan-African actor,” he said.
The president acknowledged concerns raised by other African countries over anti-immigrant actions in South Africa, saying the government had firmly rejected xenophobia, Afrophobia, vigilantism and all forms of discrimination against people from other countries.
He said South Africa’s neighbours were watching how Pretoria handled the issue, underscoring the potential diplomatic consequences of continued violence against foreign nationals.
The president’s pledge now places pressure on law-enforcement and prosecuting authorities to translate ongoing investigations into arrests and charges against those accused of organising, inciting or carrying out the violence.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
