North-West University principal and vice-chancellor Prof. Bismark Tyobeka warned rising xenophobic sentiment in South Africa threatens not only the country’s democratic ideals but also the future of its universities and global standing.

This follows nationwide anti-illegal-immigration protests on Tuesday (30/6). Civil organisation March and March said the movement will take to the streets every Thursday until the government demonstrates it is taking their demands seriously.

Writing in an opinion piece, Tyobeka reflects on two defining moments in South Africa’s history that shaped his belief in the country’s promise. He recalls watching former president Nelson Mandela walk free from prison on 11 February 1990 and casting his first democratic vote in April 1994.

However, more than three decades later, Tyobeka said he was alarmed by calls for violence and intimidation against foreign nationals amid growing tensions over illegal immigration.

“There is no place for illegal immigration, but violence against foreign nationals is never the solution,” said Tyobeka. “South Africa must enforce its laws without resorting to xenophobia.

“We want to produce globally accepted graduates, and that can only happen when they are exposed to international knowledge, scholars and students from across Africa and the world.

‘Illegal immigration is an affront to the country’

“Illegal immigration is an affront to the country, but we must not confuse those who break immigration laws with the many international students, academics and professionals who contribute legally to South Africa’s development.”

The March and March movement gathered thousands to protest undocumented immigration, arguing relaxed border control strains public services, depresses local wages, and worsens crime. Protesters handed over memorandums of their demands to provincial government offices.

The protests corresponded with an unofficial civilian deadline for undocumented migrants to leave the country by Tuesday, which triggered fears of unrest and mass intimidation.

The police were deployed heavily, using rubber bullets in several instances to disperse hostile mobs and protect targeted foreign-owned businesses.

Tyobeka warned the ideals of the Rainbow Nation were fading. However, he believed South Africans still have an opportunity to protect the legacy of reconciliation, tolerance and hope that defined the country’s democratic transition.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame sm

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