In a speech that has sparked significant concern among foreign nationals residing in South Africa, Zulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini has made inflammatory statements calling for the expulsion of migrants. His remarks, delivered during a commemorative event at the historic site of Isandlwana, appear to have exacerbated existing tensions surrounding anti-immigrant sentiments, particularly in the province of KwaZulu-Natal.
A Call to Leave
The 51-year-old king, addressing a crowd at the site of the pivotal 1879 Battle of Isandlwana, used the derogatory term “kwerekwere”—a term often employed to describe African migrants disparagingly. In his speech, he suggested that all foreign nationals should “pack their bags,” even those who have established families in South Africa. “We must now sit down and discuss this because even if my nephew’s father is a ‘kwerekwere’, the ‘kwerekwere’ must leave, only the child will remain,” he stated, prompting laughter from his audience.
This rhetoric echoes similar sentiments voiced by his late father, King Goodwill Zwelithini, who in 2015 controversially called on migrants to “pack their belongings.” His comments sparked a wave of xenophobic violence, a haunting reminder of the potential ramifications of such discourse in a nation grappling with high unemployment and social unrest.
Historical Context and Current Climate
South Africa is currently home to approximately 2.4 million migrants, constituting about 4% of the population. The socio-economic climate has led to a perception among some South Africans that migrants are competing for limited job opportunities and public resources, a belief that has fueled anti-migrant movements. The nation’s unemployment rate is one of the highest globally, hovering around 33%, intensifying frustrations towards foreign nationals.
Political groups, including the opposition party uMkhonto weSizwe, have leveraged these sentiments to bolster populist agendas advocating for the removal of undocumented migrants. Vigilante groups such as Operation Dudula have gained notoriety for their aggressive campaigns against migrants, further complicating the community dynamics in South Africa.
Tensions at Schools
Recent protests at Addington Primary School in Durban exacerbated these tensions. Demonstrators falsely claimed that 90% of students were children of migrants, leading to significant safety concerns and police intervention. Education officials refuted this claim, clarifying that foreign pupils make up only 1.8% of the national student population. This incident illustrates the misinformation that often fuels xenophobia and the detrimental effects on community cohesion.
Dr Vusumusi Sibanda, a human rights lawyer, expressed concern over the king’s remarks, noting that such rhetoric encourages citizens to take matters into their own hands. The king’s stature and influence among the Zulu people add weight to his words, making his comments particularly troubling for those advocating for inclusivity and social harmony.
Renaming KwaZulu-Natal: A Controversial Proposal
Alongside his remarks on migration, King Misuzulu also called for the removal of “Natal” from the province’s name, suggesting that it should simply be known as KwaZulu. This sentiment resonates with elements of Zulu nationalism but raises concerns about the implications of such a change in a diverse nation with 11 official languages. Cultural experts warn that this move could exacerbate ethnic tensions and undermine the multicultural fabric of the province.
Prof Musa Xulu cautioned against viewing KwaZulu-Natal solely through the lens of Zulu identity, highlighting its rich cultural diversity and the historical complexities inherent in its naming. Such discussions are fraught with political implications and could rekindle past conflicts that the nation has worked hard to overcome.
Why it Matters
King Misuzulu’s recent statements are alarming not only for their immediate impact on the lives of migrants in South Africa but also for the broader implications they hold for social cohesion in a nation still grappling with its legacy of apartheid and xenophobia. As economic pressures mount and political rhetoric intensifies, the potential for violence and division increases. The king’s words serve as a reminder of the delicate balance required in addressing migration issues, highlighting the need for compassionate dialogue rather than divisive rhetoric. The situation calls for urgent attention from both political leaders and civil society to foster a more inclusive environment for all South Africans, regardless of their origins.