Durban – Civil society organisations have issued a strong call for unity and calm as tensions linked to xenophobic attacks continue to rise across KwaZulu-Natal.The African Solidarity Network (ASONET), alongside the Women Liberation Movement, addressed the media at the Gooderson Tropicana Hotel, condemning violence, discrimination and the targeting of foreign nationals.
The organisations warned against the growing trend of communities attempting to forcibly remove so-called illegal foreigners.
Speaking at the briefing, Nokwanda Mdunge stressed that while crime, drug abuse and illegal activities remain serious challenges, they should not be used to justify violence or collective punishment.
“We are against all forms of crime, but we cannot allow communities to turn against one another,” she said.The groups also urged government to prioritise job creation instead of shutting down existing businesses, warning that such actions could worsen poverty and instability.
Efforts to engage some affected communities, including Nigerian nationals, have so far been unsuccessful.Organisers further cautioned that expelling foreigners could have wider consequences for South Africans living abroad.
They called on law enforcement to protect vulnerable groups and encouraged communities to reject misinformation, as dialogue initiatives aimed at restoring peace and coexistence gain momentum.
Email: motshwari@onenews.co.za
