Story perspectives

Hundreds Protest Johannesburg, Call for Tougher Immigration Policies

4/30/2026

Summary

**Protesters Demand Deportations**

Hundreds marched in Johannesburg on April 29, 2026 demanding stricter immigration enforcement and deportations.
March and March organized the protest with Operation Dudula, ActionSA and the Patriotic Alliance.
Protesters said unemployment over 30% and illegal migration cause overcrowding, job competition and crime.
U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres warned of rising xenophobic attacks and said South Africa deported 109,344 immigrants in two financial years after a Ghanaian nationals attack prompted ambassador’s summons.

Summary

**Lesufi Urges Reform**

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi urged Africans to strengthen immigration legislation, saying the government bears responsibility.
He warned immigration situation is a “ticking time bomb” that could destabilise province and cautioned blaming MECs for education or health creates confusion over who can act.
March and March will present demands for immigration action at his offices Wednesday.
Lesufi said he shares frustration but urges citizens to use policy channels, not street protests.

Summary

**Governments Urge Caution**

Ghana's High Commission urged nationals to keep a low profile before the Pretoria and Johannesburg marches.
Nigerian Union of Journalists chairman Olaniyi Abodedele advised members to stay indoors during the protests.
Zimbabwe warned citizens to avoid protest zones and take precautions amid rising tensions.
President Cyril Ramaphosa warned immigration concerns must not breed prejudice toward fellow Africans.
Social-media users said the marches target illegal immigrants only and are not anti-migrant.

History

Historical Context

On 12 May 2008 xenophobic riots broke out in Alexandra, Johannesburg, killing 62 people and leading President Thabo Mbeki to deploy troops—the first such deployment since apartheid—while about 1,400 suspects were arrested. The violence, which some rioters chanted Jacob Zuma’s “Umshini Wami,” still resonates in today’s anti-immigration and political rallies and heightened tensions across Johannesburg.

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**Protesters Demand Deportations**

Hundreds marched in Johannesburg on April 29, 2026 demanding stricter immigration enforcement and deportations.
March and March organized the protest with Operation Dudula, ActionSA and the Patriotic Alliance.
Protesters said unemployment over 30% and illegal migration cause overcrowding, job competition and crime.
U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres warned of rising xenophobic attacks and said South Africa deported 109,344 immigrants in two financial years after a Ghanaian nationals attack prompted ambassador’s summons.

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