South African opposition leader and Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has described the ongoing anti-immigration marches across South Africa as "clownish" and "stupid." Thousands of people have taken to the streets in anti-immigration protests, accusing illegal immigrants of taking away jobs, healthcare, housing, and other public services.
Malema Rejects Xenophobia Claims
Speaking during an interview with Sky News Africa correspondent Yousra Elbagir, Malema rejected the idea that xenophobia exists in South Africa. Instead, he characterized the participants as a group of charlatans, extortionists, and corrupt individuals attempting to extort foreign nationals.
Allegations of Government Sponsorship
Malema further alleged that these marches are sponsored and fully backed by the government. He claimed the purpose is to distract South Africans from major issues facing the country. He questioned how an ordinary person could publicly manhandle another individual in front of the police, calling it a crime in itself.
Crime Statistics Challenged
Malema challenged the narrative that foreign nationals are driving crime in South Africa. He pointed out that the majority of prisoners in South African jails are South African men, not individuals from Zimbabwe, Ghana, Nigeria, or the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The interview, conducted by Sky News Africa correspondent Yousra Elbagir, highlighted the growing tensions around immigration in South Africa. Malema's comments have sparked debate, with some supporting his views and others criticizing his dismissal of legitimate concerns about illegal immigration.
Watch the full interview below for more insights from Julius Malema on this contentious issue.
