Presidency claims continental campaign to isolate South Africa over immigration protests

Pretoria – The Presidency says South Africa is facing a coordinated campaign to isolate it from the rest of Africa following recent anti-illegal immigration protests.

Speaking in Pretoria, presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said the government had observed what it described as a sustained effort over the past two months to portray South Africa as a “pariah state” after demonstrations against illegal immigration, some of which turned violent.

WATCH | Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya says cabinet has noted with concern the anti‑illegal immigrant campaign, stressing that South Africa is not isolated and not a pariah state. He adds such campaigns are strongly rejected with utmost contempt. pic.twitter.com/lUBGDMAQV9

— SABC News (@SABCNews) July 15, 2026

Magwenya also criticised Ghana’s High Commissioner, accusing the diplomat of spreading false information and misrepresenting routine diplomatic engagements.

“It’s surprising why we are continuously experiencing this anti-diplomatic and unconstructive posture coming from some in Ghana,” he said.

[WATCH] The Presidency has expressed concern over what it describes as misinformation being spread by some African countries regarding South Africa’s immigration policy. Speaking at the Union Buildings, Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said SA remains committed to working… pic.twitter.com/juvFLeQQi9

— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) July 15, 2026

While expressing concern over the diplomatic tensions, Magwenya said some Ghanaian political leaders recognised the challenges South Africa was facing and did not share the views attributed to the High Commissioner.

The remarks come amid criticism from several African countries over South Africa’s handling of the protests and the protection of foreign nationals.