Particle.news
Get it on Google Play
Download on the App Store
33 ARTICLES
·
4h ago

Home Affairs Withdraws Asylum Directive After Violent Protests

A revised operational plan must balance the Constitutional Court order with public safety and the department’s limited processing capacity.

A police officer walks past burning vehicles during unrest following anti-migrant protests, where residents clashed with foreign-owned shopkeepers, and vehicles were set alight, after months of anti-migrant demonstrations that have drawn international criticism, in Soweto, South Africa, October 8, 2026. REUTERS/Stringer
A resident walks past burning vehicles during unrest following anti-migrant protests, where residents clashed with foreign-owned shopkeepers, and vehicles were set alight after months of anti-migrant demonstrations that have drawn international criticism, in Soweto, South Africa, October 8, 2026. REUTERS/Stringer
Image
Image

Overview

  • Home Affairs withdrew the directive on Friday after a rapid implementation overwhelmed Refugee Reception Offices and raised safety concerns for staff and the public.
  • Large anti-immigrant protests on Thursday turned violent in Soweto and Durban with officials reporting about 10 vehicles torched in Soweto and 14 in Durban and some foreign-owned shops damaged or looted.
  • The department says the 28 September instruction was an operational step issued by the director-general without ministerial sign-off and not a political decision.
  • Police and the South African National Defence Force were deployed to restore order, arrests were made and authorities warned they will pursue those responsible for arson and violence.
  • The Constitutional Court ruling that broadened access to asylum remains in force and Home Affairs says it will consult and design a sustainable way to implement the judgment while improving public communication.