AFPAA Condemns Xenophobic Attacks in South Africa, Seeks AU Intervention

The African Parliamentary Aides Association (AFPAA) has strongly condemned the ongoing xenophobic attacks in South Africa, which have resulted in the deaths of several Africans, particularly Nigerians residing in the country.

In a statement signed by the Association’s President, High Chief Barrister Emeka Nwala, the African parliamentary body described the attacks as devastating and warned that they could hinder Africa’s development.
The association noted that xenophobic attacks in South Africa have persisted for years, often targeting African migrants, especially Nigerian nationals.
It observed that the recent resurgence of violence has led to loss of lives and left many others injured.
AFPAA further stated that such attacks threaten African unity, cooperation, and integration, which form the foundation of the African Union and the Pan-African Parliament.
The parliamentary body criticized the South African government for failing to curb the ongoing violence against African nationals.
It described the government’s inability to protect foreign residents as a sign of weakness and a diplomatic misstep.
The association also reminded the South African government that subjecting foreign nationals to inhumane treatment and destruction of their property violates the rule of law, fundamental human rights, and international agreements to which the country is a signatory.
Pointing out that South African citizens reside in several African countries, including Nigeria, AFPAA said it is unwise for the government to allow xenophobia to persist.
It warned that the situation could provoke retaliatory attacks against South Africans living in other African nations.
The association stressed that Africans must not turn against one another, emphasizing that the spirit of Pan-Africanism calls for cooperation, tolerance, and mutual respect among African nations and peoples.
“Xenophobia undermines regional integration, economic cooperation, and the free movement of persons, which are essential for Africa’s development,” the statement added.
AFPAA called on the African Union to take swift and decisive action to address the crisis and call South Africa to order.
According to the association, such measures should include engaging the South African government to ensure the safety of all African nationals within its borders, enforcing accountability, and bringing perpetrators to justice to prevent future occurrences.
The association also demanded justice from the South African government through the prosecution of offenders and a demonstrated commitment to the safety and dignity of all residents, regardless of nationality, to promote peaceful coexistence.
AFPAA expressed solidarity with victims of xenophobic violence and reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the rights, safety, and dignity of parliamentary aides and all Africans across the continent.