By Ebi Kesiena
South African opposition leader, Julius Malema, has strongly condemned ongoing xenophobic attacks against Nigerians and other African nationals, challenging his compatriots to reflect on the consequences of their actions.
Speaking at a recent public event in South Africa, Malema criticised those targeting foreign nationals, questioning the logic behind blaming immigrants for unemployment.
In a fiery address, he asked protesters to account for the economic impact of their actions, particularly the destruction of businesses owned by other Africans.
“You say Zimbabweans take your jobs, Nigerians take your jobs, and you march, close shops, and beat up people. After doing that, how many jobs have you created?” he queried.
Malema argued that shutting down businesses and forcing out foreign nationals only worsens unemployment, noting that many of such establishments provide jobs for locals.
He described those driving the attacks as lacking the skills needed to compete in the labour market, insisting that violence cannot replace productivity or innovation.
The opposition figure also took a moral stance against the targeting of vulnerable individuals, including women and children, warning against normalising discrimination within African communities.
According to him, he would never seek political support from individuals who advocate the exclusion of other Africans from schools or healthcare facilities based solely on nationality.
Malema’s remarks come amid renewed xenophobic tensions in South Africa, where foreign-owned businesses have increasingly come under attack, raising concerns about regional unity and economic stability.
He reiterated his opposition to all forms of violence against fellow Africans, urging citizens to embrace solidarity rather than division in addressing the country’s socio-economic challenges.
