CPP condemns Xenophobic attacks in South Africa, calls for urgent AU action

The Convention People’s Party (CPP) has strongly condemned the rising wave of xenophobic attacks in South Africa, describing the situation as a growing humanitarian crisis that threatens the ideals of African unity.

In a statement signed by its National Communications Director, Comrade Osei Kofi Acquah, the party expressed deep concern over what it said were increasing incidents of violence against foreign nationals, including black Africans. The CPP cited reports of looting of foreign-owned businesses, assaults, public humiliation, rape, and killings, warning that such acts appear to be becoming a disturbing pattern.

The party described the development as unacceptable, particularly as some of the perpetrators are known individuals within South African society and their actions have reportedly been captured on video and widely circulated.

Addressing those involved in the attacks, the CPP stressed that many of the foreign nationals targeted had entered South Africa legally through visas issued by South African embassies across the continent. It noted that these visa processes generate revenue for South Africa and form part of lawful migration systems that should be respected.

The CPP, which aligned its position with its longstanding advocacy for Pan-Africanism, questioned whether South Africa was maintaining law and order and protecting the lives of other African nationals within its borders.

The statement also raised concerns about the broader implications of the attacks, asking whether those responsible were aware that South Africans also live and work as migrants in other African countries.

It further warned that continued inaction by South African authorities could provoke retaliatory sentiments across the continent, a development it said would undermine regional stability.

The party called on the African Union to take decisive action, questioning the role of the continental body in addressing the crisis. It urged the AU to issue a firm ultimatum to the South African government to end the violence and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice.

According to the CPP, failure by the African Union to protect Africans on the continent would cast doubt on its relevance and the broader vision of African unity.

The statement also urged the South African government to deal decisively with those responsible for the attacks, stressing the need for strict enforcement of the law to serve as a deterrent.

To the Government of Ghana, the CPP invoked the words of Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah, reminding authorities of the need to protect Ghanaian citizens and their businesses abroad. It emphasised that while Ghanaians may be measured in their response, they are capable of decisive action when pushed.

The CPP further called on other African countries whose citizens have been affected to take a firm stance against the ongoing violence, stating that the continent had tolerated such acts for too long.

Reaffirming its commitment to African unity, the party concluded that the vision of a united and strong Africa remains critical, particularly in the face of challenges that threaten the safety and dignity of its people.