South African President warns against intimidation in anti-migrant protests
via The Namibian3 min read
President Cyril Ramaphosa has cautioned against intimidation, threats, or ultimatums in anti-migrant protests, ahead of an unofficial deadline for undocumented foreigners to leave South Africa. Thousands of citizens from other African countries have already departed due to fears of violence. Ramaphosa emphasized that foreign nationals residing lawfully in South Africa are entitled to legal protection and contribute positively to society. He reiterated that the right to protest does not permit threatening others or engaging in vandalism or violence. Official figures indicate over three million documented foreign nationals in South Africa. Many migrants have been in temporary camps awaiting processing due to safety concerns. In Durban, where significant protests have occurred, transit camps are being dismantled as Malawians prepare to return home. Nelson Mbewe, a Malawian, expressed heartbreak at leaving his children but acknowledged the situation, stating, "It's their country, so what can we do?" Hassan Phiri, another Malawian, appealed for unity, saying, "Africa must remain Africa." Anti-migrant marches are authorized in Durban, Johannesburg, and other cities, with authorities warning organizers against violence and preparing for potential disruptions. Police have banned traditional weapons, which could cause tension with ethnic Zulu protesters. The government reports over 12,000 immigrants have been deported or repatriated this year, with Ghana, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria,
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by The Namibian.
The Namibian Welwitschias showcased a new-look team and strong attacking rugby to secure a dominant 71-12 victory over Zambia on Sunday. In their first match of the year, the Welwitschias scored 11 tries, with fullback Jaylon Carew achieving a hat-trick. Other try scorers included Adriaan Booysen two, Ruan Ludick, Kistings Minyoi, Obert Nortje, Max Katjijeko, Aston Mukwiilongo, and JP Campbell. Wiks Tromp added five conversions and Carew three. Zambia's tries came from eighthman Rodgers Mukapa and prop Lawrence Lesa, with fullback Perry Mwape converting one. Namibia established an early lead, going up 14-0 before Zambia scored. The Welwitschias then extended their lead to 33-5 by halftime and continued their strong performance in the second half. Assistant coach Darryl de la Harpe expressed satisfaction with the team's performance, particularly the young players, and noted that their next match against the Blue Bulls would present a tougher challenge.
Must ReadMalawian migrants are being repatriated from South Africa due to mounting fears of anti-immigrant sentiment and a June 30 deadline for their departure. At a temporary repatriation site in Durban, thousands of individuals, including Azadi, expressed sadness and anxiety about leaving. Many waited for buses to transport them to Musina, with concerns about the availability of vehicles. The eThekwini Municipality reported that approximately 7,000 people had been transported to Limpopo by June 28, with 58 buses departing on Sunday and 10 on Monday morning. Officials were confident that all remaining individuals would be transported by the deadline. Simultaneously, South African Police Service SAPS officers conducted operations in Durban, checking documentation of suspected migrants. Several individuals, including a man from the Democratic Republic of Congo, were detained after police deemed their papers fraudulent, despite claims from those detained that their documents were legitimate. Acting National Police Commissioner Puleng Dimpane stated that 195 suspects had been arrested since March 1 in connection with anti-foreigner demonstrations, and over 2,800 undocumented individuals were arrested in the past week. By Monday night, all Malawian nationals at the Durban site had boarded buses for Musina, with the site left with only discarded belongings.
Must ReadMorocco secured a spot in the World Cup last 16 after defeating the Netherlands in a penalty shootout, following a 1-1 draw after extra time in Monterrey. The match saw the Netherlands take the lead midway through the second half with a goal from Cody Gakpo. However, Morocco's Issa Diop scored a dramatic equalizer in the first minute of stoppage time, forcing the game into extra time. During the penalty shootout, Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou made a crucial save against Crysencio Summerville's fifth penalty, allowing striker Ismael Saibari to convert the winning spot-kick, sealing a 3-2 shootout victory for Morocco. The Atlas Lions will now face Canada in Houston on Saturday.