South Africa condemns ‘fake videos’ of alleged xenophobic attacks

South Africa’s government has condemned the circulation of what it called “fake videos and images” that have been described by some as recordings of attacks on foreign nationals in the country. The call comes as diplomatic tension has increased between South Africa and other African nations following accusations that xenophobic violence is on the rise once again in the country. Ghana’s government has written to the African Union (AU) asking the continental body to discuss the issue, which it says is a “serious risk to the safety and wellbeing” of Africans in South Africa.

Nigeria has also raised the issue and has offered to repatriate its nationals amid fears of attacks. Kenya, Malawi, Lesotho and Zimbabwe have also warned its citizens in South Africa to be aware of possible attacks. South Africa responded to Ghana’s message saying that it “had nothing to hide”.

This wave of pressure was sparked after video clips were shared online over a fortnight ago that appeared to show vigilante groups harassing people they believed were in South Africa illegally. In one, it was reported that a Ghanaian had been challenged over his status and told to go and “fix his country”. But briefing the media on Thursday following a cabinet meeting, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said, without specifying which footage she was talking about, that “the fake videos and images are not only fake, but they are intended to undermine the good reputation of South Africa internationally and undermine the country’s pursuit of a better Africa agenda”.

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Thousands of South Africans have been protesting against illegal immigration in major cities in recent days, demanding the mass deportation of undocumented foreign nationals. Protesters have said illegal immigration has had an impact on jobs, housing and crime.

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