12/06/2026
AFM Family,
// XENOPHOBIC ATTACKS & THREATS OF VIOLENCE 🔖
The recent xenophobic attacks and threats of further violence in South Africa are deeply concerning and call for a measured, compassionate, and constructive response from all sectors of society. It is important to acknowledge the very real frustrations experienced by many South Africans who face high levels of unemployment, poverty, inequality, and inadequate service delivery. Communities that struggle daily with a lack of housing, healthcare, education, safety, and economic opportunities often feel neglected and unheard, creating fertile ground for anger and resentment. These grievances are legitimate and deserve urgent attention.
At the same time, violence, intimidation, and the targeting of foreign nationals cannot be justified. While it is true that no country can function effectively without properly regulated immigration and that individuals should not reside in any country illegally, -the responsibility for managing migration, securing borders, processing documentation, and enforcing immigration laws rests primarily with government institutions. It is neither fair nor lawful for ordinary migrants, many of whom are themselves vulnerable, to become scapegoats for broader systemic failures.
We therefore call on all our members not to take the law into their own hands under any circumstances, and not to participate in or support any acts of violence, intimidation, vandalism, or the causing of injury to the person or property of any individual. The rule of law must prevail, and grievances must be addressed through lawful and peaceful means.
As South Africans 🇿🇦 seek solutions to pressing social and economic challenges, we must also remember the moral and spiritual values that have long shaped our society. Scripture repeatedly calls on believers to treat the foreigner with dignity, justice, and compassion. The Biblical injunction to welcome and care for the stranger reminds us that every person is created in the image of God and deserves to be treated with humanity and respect.
Our response to these challenges must therefore be guided by both justice and compassion, rejecting violence while pursuing effective governance and social renewal.
Yours in Christ
Dr Henri Weideman
- Preseident of The AFM of SA
(On behalf of The National Office Bearers)
