World Health Organisation Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has strongly condemned the latest wave of xenophobic threats in South Africa.

He described the situation as a “tragic betrayal” of the country’s historic struggle for freedom and justice.

His comments come as anti-illegal immigrant protests continue across several provinces. According to reports, some demonstrations have escalated to the point where police intervention was needed.

Demonstrators have also allegedly threatened the safety of foreign nationals and their property.

Protests Raise Safety Fears

One organisation linked to the protests, March and March, has reportedly set 30 June as the deadline for undocumented foreign nationals to leave South Africa.

Ghebreyesus said he was deeply saddened by reports of renewed attacks targeting foreign nationals.

In a statement posted on X, he said families had been displaced and lives had been lost during the violence.

He also referred to claims that at least five Ethiopians were killed in earlier attacks, while five Mozambicans died in Mossel Bay.

Thousands more people were reportedly forced to flee for their safety.

Tedros Calls for Rule of Law

Ghebreyesus said South Africa’s history made the rise in xenophobia especially painful.

He noted that African countries had supported South Africa during the fight against apartheid, including Ethiopia’s support for Nelson Mandela.

He urged South Africans to deal with grievances through lawful processes.

He said disagreements must be handled by the justice system and the rule of law, not through vigilante violence or collective punishment.

“Stop the hate. Protect the vulnerable. Uphold our shared humanity,” Ghebreyesus said.

Government Warns Against Fake Content

The Inter-Ministerial Committee on Migration has also raised concerns about fake videos and manipulated images spreading online.

The committee warned that disinformation is being used to incite violence, create panic and fuel attacks on foreign nationals.

It said false content often blames foreign nationals for deep-rooted issues such as unemployment and crime.

Government also warned that these campaigns could damage South Africa’s international reputation.

The committee said misinformation remains one of the biggest threats to stability in communities.