The African Union Commission (AUC) has urged South African authorities to address concerns over undocumented migrants through legal processes rather than violence against African nationals.
Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, said while sovereign states have the right to enforce their immigration laws, such measures must be implemented within the confines of the law.
Speaking during an official visit to the Jubilee House on Wednesday, July 22, Mr Youssouf stressed that the AUC does not support attacks on foreign nationals, regardless of their immigration status.
“If there are illegal migrants in South Africa, they have to be handled through the proper channels of the law of the country,” he said.
His comments follow renewed reports of attacks targeting African nationals living in South Africa.
According to the AUC Chairperson, the incidents are not limited to Ghanaians but affect citizens from several African countries.
“It is not only Ghanaians. African citizens from many countries are being targeted in South Africa. It is a big source of concern for the Commission,” he said.
Mr Youssouf expressed concern that individuals responsible for harassing and attacking foreign nationals appear to be operating without consequences.
“At the same time, we see that these people who are harassing the citizens are free to do whatever they want, and that is terrible and very sad,” he stated.
He reiterated the African Union’s opposition to xenophobic attacks and called for the protection of all African nationals living in South Africa.
The AUC Chairperson urged authorities to ensure that migration-related concerns are addressed through lawful processes while upholding the principles of unity, dignity and solidarity among African countries.
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