Story perspectives

Zulu King Urges Migrants to Leave Amid Rising Xenophobia

2/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

Misuzulu kaZwelithini, the Zulu king, called for migrants to leave South Africa after violent clashes in KwaZulu-Natal.
Misuzulu kaZwelithini used derogatory language toward migrants and said foreign fathers must leave, while children from relations with South African women could stay.
Critics noted irony, citing his own family's foreign ties.
The rhetoric reflects ongoing xenophobia in South Africa amid rising tensions over immigration, including protests at Addington Primary School.

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Story summary

Misuzulu kaZwelithini, the Zulu king, called for migrants to leave South Africa after violent clashes in KwaZulu-Natal.
Misuzulu kaZwelithini used derogatory language toward migrants and said foreign fathers must leave, while children from relations with South African women could stay.
Critics noted irony, citing his own family's foreign ties.
The rhetoric reflects ongoing xenophobia in South Africa amid rising tensions over immigration, including protests at Addington Primary School.