Headline: Zimbabwean Lawyer Warns Zimbabwean Migrants in South Africa of Potential Rise in Xenophobic Attacks
Subtitle: Journalist Hopewell Chin’ono criticizes political parties’ focus on immigration issues and warns of worsening situation for migrants in South Africa
Date: July 7, 2023
In a recent statement, Zimbabwean lawyer and journalist, Hopewell Chin’ono, has issued a warning to his fellow countrymen who are residing in Johannesburg, South Africa, about the possibility of increased xenophobia and attacks targeting migrants. Chin’ono’s concern stems from the recent victory of the Patriotic Alliance (PA) in Ward 7 and their growing influence, particularly on immigration issues.
Led by Gayton McKenzie, the PA has made immigration a central focus of their party’s agenda. Chin’ono predicts that this emphasis on immigration by the PA could result in a challenging situation for migrants and foreigners living in South Africa. He fears that the PA’s rising influence may lead to a rise in xenophobic attacks and the proliferation of anti-migrant narratives.
Chin’ono goes on to criticize Fikile Mbalula, the Secretary General of the ruling African National Congress (ANC), for potentially adopting a xenophobic stance to regain support from the PA. According to Chin’ono, Mbalula’s approach of attributing the migration of Zimbabweans to South Africa to sanctions instead of corruption is misguided and could have negative repercussions for vulnerable migrants. The journalist believes that Mbalula’s strategy is driven by the ANC’s need to address populist immigration concerns, which is causing them to adopt right-wing policies based on incorrect justifications.
Highlighting the broader issue, Chin’ono expresses sadness that South Africa’s governance failures are often wrongly attributed to illegal immigration. He is concerned that the blame placed on migrants for various societal problems could further exacerbate tensions and lead to more xenophobic incidents. Furthermore, Chin’ono points out that another political party focusing on immigration issues gained 9% support in the previous election, indicating a growing sentiment among some South African voters.
The article also mentions that taxi drivers in certain parts of the country have already taken xenophobic actions against African immigrants working in their parks. This further underscores the urgency of addressing these issues to ensure a peaceful and inclusive society for all Africans residing in South Africa.
Chin’ono concludes by emphasizing the need for policymakers and stakeholders to address these concerns and promote an inclusive society that is free from xenophobia and discrimination. The article encourages readers to engage in the conversation by sharing their thoughts and reactions, emphasizing the importance of creating awareness and generating discussions on this critical topic.
Please note that the information in this article is based on the statements and observations made by Hopewell Chin’ono and does not reflect the views of the publication.
Source:
https://twitter.com/daddyhope/status/1674370142447325186?t=EfyBz9xHO1_4iPDOpVCcoA&s=19
https://twitter.com/daddyhope/status/1674404558154481670?t=K2y49EJS8-CYsAD7ysX_Xw&s=19
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