After attaining independence from its colonial ruler in 1994, South Africa became a model of racial unity in Africa, as well as a poster-child of economic prosperity in the region. It also attracted a lot of foreign immigrants.
Tension between locals and foreigners has led to major clashes on the streets of Johannesburg and other major cities in recent weeks. Mobs armed with axes, crowbars and other weapons caused at least 6 deaths and countless injuries. Three hundred people have been arrested in connection with the attacks. The government has called for restraint and helped over 1,000 immigrants with housing and food after they were forced from their homes. Many will return to their countries.
Tensions over immigration are not new to South Africa. Discrimination against immigrants is such a commonplace topic that three years ago the fast food chain Nando’s made a commercial making fun of anti-immigrant attitudes. In the latest wave of violence, that commercial has gotten a second run with thousands of shares on social media sites like Facebook and YouTube. The video starts ironically, with a cold, mean-sounding narration “You know what’s wrong with South Africa? All you foreigners,” As migrants cross through a broken fence on foot, their belongings slung over their backs. “You must all go back to where you came from.”
Source: Latin Times
