The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights expresses grave alarm over the threats of expulsion vigilante groups in South Africa set for 30 June against migrants of nationals of other African states
The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (the Commission) expresses grave concern over the threats of expulsion directed against migrants of nationals of other African states.
The Commission is deeply alarmed by reports of mounting anxiety among foreign nationals residing prompted by the threat of expulsion issued by a vigilante group called March-March urging migrants to leave South Africa before the deadline of 30 June 2026.
The Commission strongly condemns the acts of intimidation, attacks and violence directed against migrants particularly from other African states by the vigilante groups of Operaiton Dudula and March March.
The Commission reminds the Government of South Africa and member of the public that these acts of intimidation and violence constitute violations of the fundamental rights enshrined in the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (African Charter), particularly the principle of non-discrimination (Article 2), the right to life (Article 4), the right to dignity (Article 5), and the right to liberty and security of the person (Article 6). The duty of protection (by the South African State) of and of respect (by members of the public) for these rights extend to all individuals within the jurisdiction of South Africa, irrespective of nationality or migration status.
The threat of attacks and expulsion directed against migrants from other African nationals after the purported deadline of 30 June constitutes direct violation of Article 12(4) and (5) of the African Charter which prohibit mass expulsion of non-nationals. Any act of tolerance or accommodation of such threats is contrary to the values that underpin the African Charter and constitute grave threat to due process of the law.
The Commission reiterates that the responsibility to enforce immigration laws rests solely with duly authorised State institutions, and that any form of vigilante justice or mob action or tolerance and accommodation of such action is contrary to the values that underpin the African Charter and constitute grave threat to due process of the law.
While welcoming statements by South African authorities including by President Cyril Ramaphosa and the Acting National Commissioner of Police, the Commission emphasises that such expressions must be accompanied by prompt, concrete, and sustained measures to ensure the safety and security of affected individuals and communities.
In view of the foregoing, the African Commission calls upon the Government of the Republic of South Africa to take the following actions:
1. Establish robust protection measures for affected communities particularly migrants and other non-nationals, focusing on areas identified as high-risk such as Kwa-Zulu Natal, including through increased security presence and provision of safe spaces.
2. Take decisive measures to dismantle and prevent the operation of vigilante groups engaging in unlawful enforcement activities, including through clear public directives and strengthened law enforcement responses.
3. Ensure Accountability and Access to Justice by identifying, prosecuting, and sanctioning all perpetrators, including those involved in organising or inciting such acts, and ensure that victims have access to effective remedies and reparations.
4. Strengthen oversight mechanisms to ensure that law enforcement agencies act in compliance with human rights standards and that the rule of law is upheld at all times.
The African Commission will continue to monitor the situation closely and remains ready to engage with the Government of South Africa to ensure that justice, accountability, and the protection of human and peoples’ rights are assured.
The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights
25 June 2026
