Dozens of protesters marched through the streets of Cape Town on Saturday, calling for stronger action against illegal immigration and urging government authorities to address the alleged growing impact of undocumented migration on South African society.
Footage shows demonstrators rallying through the streets, waving flags and banners while chanting slogans. At the conclusion of the march, organisers submitted a memorandum to Parliament outlining their grievances and demands, including stricter enforcement of immigration laws and improved border controls.
"We are sick and tired. All the foreigners, if you have no papers, you must go back where you are from. But all I can say is, if you are in Nigeria and you got a paper and you got no paper – please, you better go to your home. "
Demonstrators voiced their concerns throughout the march, arguing that illegal immigration has contributed to several of the country's most pressing challenges.
"We are not racist; we are not xenophobic. But if you have papers and you are a good person, you are humble, and you do the right thing, you can stay here."
Many protesters expressed frustration with what they perceive as insufficient government action, warning that citizens may increasingly seek to address the issue themselves if authorities fail to respond decisively.
Protest leaders also reiterated a nationwide deadline of June 30, which they claim has been issued to undocumented immigrants to leave South Africa.
The rally comes amid a surge in anti-migrant rallies across parts of South Africa, where demonstrators accused foreign nationals of taking jobs, increasing crime and applying pressure to public services.
In a national address last week, President Cyril Ramaphosa warned against xenophobic violence and vigilante action, saying there is "no space for xenophobia, racism, sexism, Afrophobia, or any other forms of intolerance" in the country.
Several West African countries have begun arranging repatriation flights for their citizens, while others have urged their nationals in South Africa to exercise caution amid ongoing tensions.